TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 1
AUTHOR: United States. War Dept., John Sheldon Moody, Calvin Duvall Cowles, Frederick Caryton Ainsworth, Robert N. Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley
PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1880
Page A
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Page B
Title Page
Page R001
THE
WAR OF THE REBELLION:
A COMPILATION OF THE
OFFICIAL RECORDS
OF THE
UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES.
PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR, BY BYT. LIEUT.
COL. ROBERT N. SCOTT, TuRD U. S. ARTILLERY,
AND
PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO ACT OF CONGRESS APPROVED JUNE 16, 1880.
C
SERIES IVOLUME I.
WASHINGTON:
~OVEUNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1880
Page R002
/4. ~
K
5
4(t. /
V.
Page R003
PREFACE.
By an act approved June 23, 1874, Congress made an appropriation
to enable the Secretary of War to begin the publication of the Official
Records of the War of the Rebellion, both of the Union and Confed-
erate Armies,~and directed him to have copied for the Public Printer
all reports, letters, telegrams, and general orders not heretofore copied
or printed, and properly arranged in chronological order.
Appropriations for continuing such preparation have been made from
time to time, and the act approved June 16, 1880, has provided for
the printing and binding, under direction of the Secretary of War, of
10,000 copies of a compilation of the Official Records (Union and Con-
federate) of the War of the Rebellion, so far as the same may be ready
fof publication, during the fiscal year; and that of said number, 7,000
copies shall be for the use of th~ House of Representatives, 2,000 copies
for the use of the Senate, and 1,000 copies for the use of the Executive
Departments.
This compilation will be the first general publication of the military
records of the war, and will embrace all official documents that can
be obtained by the compiler, and that appear to be of any historical
value.
The publication will present the records iii the following order of
arrangement:
The 1st Series will embrace the formal reports, both Union and Con-
federate, of the first seizures of United States property in the Southern
States, and of all military operations in the field, with the correspond-
ence, orders, and returns relating specially thereto, and, as proposed, is
to be accompanied by an Atlas.
In this series the reports will be arranged according to the campaigns
and several theaters of operations (in the chronological order of the
events), and the Union reports of any event will, as a rule, be imme-
diately followed by the Confederate accounts. The correspondence, & c.,
not embraced in the reports proper will follow (first Union and next
Confederate) in chronological order.
The 2d Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and
returns, Union and Confederate, relating to prisoners of war, and (so
far as the military authorities were concerned) to State or political
prisoners.
11
Page R004
IV PREFACE.
The 3d Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and
returns of the Union authorities (embracing their correspondence with
the Confederate officials) not relating specially to the subjects of the
first and second series. It will set forth the annual and special reports
of the Secretary of War, of the General-in-Chief; and of the chiefs of
the several staff corps and departments; the calls for troops, and the
correspondence between the National and the several State authorities.
The 4th Series will exhibit the correspondence, orders, reports, and
returns of the Confederate authorities, similar to that indicated for the
Union officials, as of the third series, but excluding the correspondence
between the Union and Confederate authorities given in that series.
ROBERT N. SCOTT,
Major, Third Art., and Bvt. Lieut. Gol.
WAn DEPARTMENT, August 23, 1880.
Approved:
ALEX. RAMSEY,
& cretary of War
Table of Contents
Page R005
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER 1.
Operations in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. December 20, 1860April g
14, 1861 1317
CHAPTER II.
The secession of Georgia. January 326, 1861 .... 318325
CHAPTER III.
The secession of Alabama and Mississippi. January 420, 1861 326330
CHAPTER IV.
Operations in Florida. January 6August31, 1861 ... - 331473
CHAPTER V.
The secession of North Carolina. January 9May 20, 1861 .. 474488
CHAPTER VI.
The secession of Louisiana. January 10-February 19, 1861 489501
CHAPTER VII.
Operations in Texas and New Mexico. February 1June 11, 1861 . 502636
CHAPTER VIII.
Operations in Arkansas, the Indian Territory, and Missouri. February 7
May 9, 1861 637691
Page R006
Additions and Corrections
Page A001
THE
WAR OF THE REBELLION:
A COMPILATION OF THE
OFFICIAL 7IRECOI~DS
OF THE
UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES.
- ADDITIONS AND CORI~EOTIONS
TO
SERIES IVOLUME I.
(To be il~serted iii the volume. For explanatiou see G-erieral
Index volume, Serial No. 130, page XXVIII.)
PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF
The Hon. ELIHU ROOT, Secretary of War,
BY
BRIG. GEN. FRED C. AINSWORTIJ,
CHIEF OF THE RECORD AND PENSION OFFICE, WAR DEPARTMENT,
ANI)
MR. JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY.
Mr. JOHN S. MOODEY, Indexer.
WASHINGTON:
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.
1902
Page A002
2
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS.
TEXT.
Page 2. Report No. 22, for Son/h carolina Mililia read Marion Ar/illery.
Report No. 26, for A/Is/on read Als/on.
Page 30. Erase foot-note and insert See Pla/es 121 and 122 of/he A/las.
Page 130. Erase foot-note and insert See Series III, Vol. i, pp. 2729.
Page 173. Erase in foot-note To appear in A/las.
Page 196. Erase in foot-note the following: They were probably submi//ed /o /he
Cabine/ March i,~, s86z.
Page 253. First line, ford (?) read 26.
Hayne to Pickens, fifth line, for /he Baron read Barron.
Page 272. Walker to Beauregard, fourth line, third paragraph, for /o-nigh/ read by
nigh/.
Page 291. First line, insert after Execn/ive the words of each, so that it will read
E cen/ive of each of /he Confedera/e S/a/es.
Page 332. Report No. 6, for Yuell read Yulee.
Page 464. Erase foot-note and insert See Series I. Vol. 53, ~. 22/9.
Page 489. Summary, etc., second event, for ii read so.
Page 534. Sibley to Nichols, second line, for si/h read 7/h.
Page 537. Fourteenth line, top, for Wal/er read Waller.
Page 564. Erase foot. note JVo/ found and insert Omi//ed. Shows 9 officers and
452 men cap/ured a/ Saluria, Tex.
Page 567. Insert note, Medal of Honor awarded /o Serg/. Maj. Joseph K. Wilson,
Eigh/h Infan/ry, for bringing colors of/he regimen/ ou/ of Texas.
Page 609. Erase foot-note and insert See General Orders, No. 5, p. 515.
INDEX.
Insert all words aud figures iu italics and strike out all in [brackets]. Au asterisk (*) following a
correctiou indicates that Additions and corrections to the text should be consulted.
i~darns, Henry A.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Adjutant-Generals Office, U.S. A.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Harney, William S., 6g8, 669.
Lyon, Nathaniel, 670, 67g.
Twiggs, David E. [Tex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
[West, Dept. Hdqrs., 658,669,670,675.]
Aldrich, N. [Rev. Mr.].
Allison, U. V. [Private].
Aiston [Allston], charles, jr.
Alvarado, Bark.
Destruction of. Report of E. Yulee [Vuell].
Arkansas.
Operations in. Communications from
Bronaugh [Brougnah], W.N.
Army Headquarters.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Canby, Ed. R. S., 6o6.
Emory, William H., 667.
Harney, William S. [West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Loring, W. W.,599, 602, 6o~.
[New Mex., Dept. Hdqrs., 599,602, 604, 6o6.]
[Tex., Dept. Hdqrs., 579581, 585587, 589, 590,
s~8.]
Twiggs, David E.,,579-581,,58,5,g9o.
Waite, Curbs A., ~86, 587,589,598.
Arnold, Lewis G.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Baltic, Steamer, 24.
Barclay, Richard A [Barkley, Captain].
Barron, Samuel, 253.*
Basinger [Bassinger], W. S.
Beale, Horace, Steamer.
Beauregard, G. T.
Correspondence with
War Department, C. 5., 464.
Belknap, George E. [Belnap, G. L.].
Bell, M. L. [Mr.].
Berry, Michael [Captain].
Bickley, General, 625.
Bigler, William [Governor].
Billings, K. G. [Lieutenant]. -
Blair, William B.
Correspondence with
Waite, Carlos A. [Tex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Blanding, Ormsly [Lieutenant].
Blocker, John R. [Lieutenant].
Boerustein, Henry [Mr.].
Boggess [Bogges], Milton M.
Bowen, Nicolas [Nicholas].
Boyd, David H. [Sergeant].
Bradfute, W. R., 632 [Captain, 932].
Bragg, Braxton.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.]
Page A003
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS.
Bronaugh [Brougnab], W. N.
Brown, Harvey.
Correspondence wi/h
A dams, Henry A., 403, 409, 410, 413.
A djntant-Generals Office, U. S. A., 382, 387,
437, 439, 440.
Army Headqnarters, 365,372,373, 376, ~78, 380,
390, 391, 400, 407, 411, 414, 416, 424, 427429,
431-435, 441.
Arnold, Lewis U., 371,377,392.
Bragg, Braxton, 380, 4o8, 419, 420.
Campbell, John, 410.
French, William H., 375,393, 404, 411,412, 424,
425, 427, 430.
Hnnt, Edward B., 371.
McKean, William W., 418, 419.
Mez~gs, Montgomery C, 381,385, 389,391.
Morton, J. St. Clair, 372.
Porter, David D., 382, 402.
Qnartermaster-Generals Office, U. S. A., 438.
Tower, Zealous B., 415.
Buist, George L. [I,ieuteuant, 159].
Bnist, Henry, 159.
Burrow, Napoleon B. [Burroughs, B.].
Caidwell, A. Harper [Mr.].
CampheliJames F [Mr.], 49, 55.
Campbell, John.
Correspondence with Harvey Brown [Fin.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Campbell, Robert P. [Mr.], 426.
Canby. Ed. R. S.
Correspondence with Army Headquarters, 6o6.
Cautwell, John L.
Carpenter, S. D.
Correspondence with
[Tex., Dept. Hdqrs., 523, 541.]
Twiggs, David F., 523.
Waite, Carlos A., 541.
Charleston Harbor.
Operations in. Communications from
Als/on [Aliston], Charles, jr.
Wz~gfall, Louis T. [Woods, Charles R.]
Woods, Charles B. [Wigfall, Louis T.].
Cherokee Indians.
Relations with Confederate States, 682, 684.
Childs, F. L., 450 [Childs, Lieutenant, 450].
Choctaw Indians.
Relations with Confederate States, 682.
Chubb, Thomas H. [Captain].
Clapp,Jarnes C [H.].
Cody, Francis [Private].
Coltart, John C. [Colonel].
Congress, U. S.
Correspoudence with A braham Lincoln, 440.
Cooke,John B. [Lieutenant].
Cortina Juan N., 629.
Councils of War.
Pickeus, Fort, Fla., May 22, i86i, 415.
Co etter, Louis M. [Coxsitter, Captain].
Cozzens, Edward B. [Captain].
Crusoe, Peter [Mr.].
Daggett, Thomas W. [Captain].
Dearing, Alfred L. [Colonel].
De Hart, Henry V. [Captain].
De Jarnette, Daniel C. [Mr.].
De Witt, C. C. [Colonel].
Dixon,James [Senator].
Douglas, Samuell. [Judge].
Duke, Basil W [Captain].
Duryea, Robert S. [Colonel].
Dwyer, John [Private].
[East, Dept. Hdqrs. Correspondence with Israel
Vogdes, 378.]
Edgar, William [W. M.].
Mentioned, 548.
Edwards, Nathaniel [Sergeant].
Elliott, Stephen, jr.
Emory, William H.
Correspondence with
Army Headquarters, 667.
Harney, William S. [West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Filer, James [Tiler, Mr.].
Fiulay, George P. [Captain].
Fleming, David G. [Flemming, Lieutenant].
Florida.
Military departments embracing, 365,366.
Operations in. Communications from
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Hubert, F. [ ].
Ynlee [Yuell], E.
Florida, Department of (U.).
Constituted, 365,366.
Flynn, JohnJ. [Captain].
Foster, Mr., 202 [292].
Foster,John G., Mrs., 137.
French, William H.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Fretwell,J. R. [Dr.].
Fry, James H., [Capt.].
Fulcrod, Philip [Fulkrod, Captain].
Fullam, RichardJ. [Fullum, Corporal].
Gaillard, T. F. [Sergeant].
George, Alexander [Alderman].
Gillespie, Thomas F. [Captain].
Gillis,John P. [Commander, U. S. N.].
Glenn [Glen], LutherJ.
Gonzales, A.~ [Miles].
Good, W. Spalding [Gord, Lieutenant].
Grace, Horace [Lieutenant].
Grant, Robert A. [Private].
Gray, Alfred G. [Captain (steamship Atlantic)].
Greene, Colton [Green, Captain].
Gregorie,J. W. [Lieutenant].
Grimes, Marshall [Mr.].
Hagner, Peter V.
Correspondence with
Harney, William S. [West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Hammer, A. [Dr.].
Hampton, G. J. [Captain].
Hardeman, Peter [Captain].
Harleston, Francis H. [Lieutenant].
Harney, William S.
Correspondence with
Adjutant-Generals Office, U. S. A., 6~8, 669.
Army Headquarters, 653, 654, 6~6, 662, 66~, 666.
Emory, William I-I., 66i, 668.
Hagner, Peter V., 66i, 662, 664.
Lyon, Nathaniel, 658, 668.
Macrae, Nathaniel C., 663, 664.
Miles, Dixon 5., 664.
Montgomery. Alexander, 6~6.
Saint Louis Police Commissioners, 670.
Steele, William, 670.
Harriet Lane, U. S. Steamer, 240.
Harris, A. D. [Captain].
Page A004
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS.
Harris, C.
Correspondence with Napokon B: Burrow [B.
Burroughs].
Harris, Ma/thias [Rev. Mr.].
Harris, Robed Y. [General].
Haskell, C. T., Ir.
Henry, James A. [Alderman].
Herhert, W.J. [Captain].
Hill, Bennett H.
Correspondence with
Waite, Car/os A. [Tex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Holt, John T. [Captain].
Horace Beale, Steamer, 347.
Howe, Charles [Mr.].
Huhert, F [ ].
Huguenin, Thomas A. [Lieutenant].
Hunt, Edward B.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Indian Territory.
Operations in. Communications from
Burrow, Napoleon B. [Burroughs, B.].
Harney, William S., 6~6.
Lyon, Nathaniel, 668, 68o.
[West, Dept. Hdqrs., 656, 668, 68o.]
Inge, Fort, Ter.
Abandoned, March i~, s86s, 502.
Johnson, Arm iger H. [Captain].
Johnson, Charles B. [Mr.].
Johnson, Richard W.
Correspondence with
Waite, Carlos A. [Tex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Jones,i G. [Captain (Texas)].
Jones, J. P., 47 [Jones, J., 47].
Jones, Robert F [Captain (Fort Morgan, Ala.)].
Jones, Thomas M.
Correspondence with Carlos A. Waite [Tax.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Joseph Whitney, Steamer, 345-347.
Judah & LeBaron, 409; Le Baron,CharlesL., [409].
Kampmann, John H. [Kampman, Captain].
Keen, Joseph S. [Private].
Key, Joseph [Kay, G.].
Key West, F/a. See Florida.
Kiugman, Fliab [Mr.].
Kyle, Fergus [Captain].
Lamar, Thomas G.,g~, 268, 271 [Lamar, Colonel,
34, 268,271].
bander, F. W.
Correspondence with Carlos A. Waite [Tex.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Lawton, A. R.
Correspondence with
Basinger [Bassinger], W. S.
Leeper, Matthew [Leiper, Colonel].
Lincoln, Ahraham.
Correspondence with
Congress, U. S. [Senate of the United States].
Lyon, Nathaniel [West, lept. Hdqrs.].
Litchfield,John L. [Captain].
Littleton, John [Mr.].
Loring, W. W.
Correspondence with
Army Headquarters, 599, 6os, 604.
Lynde, Isaac, 6oo.
Paul, Gabriel R., 605.
Union, Fort, N. Mex., Comdg. Officer, 6o~.
Wainwright, Robert A., 6o.
Zucas, J. Jonathan [Colonel].
Lynah [Lynch], Arthur M.
Lynde, Isaac.
Correspondence with W. W. Loring [New
Mex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Lyon, Nathaniel.
Correspondence with
Adlutant-Generals Office, U. S. A., 670, 675.
Harney, William S. [West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Lincoln, A braham, 675.
McClellan, George B., 68o.
War Department, U. 5., 675.
McAllister, S. W. [McCallister, Captain].
McClellan, George B.
Correspondence with Nathaniel Lyon [West,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
McClure, Daniel.
Correspondence with Car/os A. Waite [Tex.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
MeCrady, John [Lieutenant].
MeCulloch, Ben.
Correspondence with
Edgar, William [W. M.].
McDowell, Samuelj P. [Captain].
MeKean, W. W.
Correspondence with Harvey Brown [Fla.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Maclin, Sackfield.
Correspondence with
Edgar, William [W.W.].
Waite, Car/os A. [Tex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Macrae, Nathaniel C.
Correspondence with William S. Homey
[West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
MeRory, J. H. [Captaini.
Maffitt [Maffit], John N.
Magill, James [McGill, Private].
Major, J. P., 624, 632.
Mallory, S. R.
Correspondence with
Bigler, William [Governor].
Maloney, Wa/tee U [Mr.].
Manigault, A. M. [Captain].
Maverick, Lewis [Captain].
Mech/ing, Wi/liani F [Meckling, W. T.].
Meigs, Montgomery C.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fla., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Mervine, William.
Declaration of blockade at Key West, F/a., 429.
Miles, Dixon S.
Correspondence with
Harney, William S. [West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Mines,John F. [Menes, Rev. Mr.].
Minter,Joseph [J.] F., 624 [Muihr, Captain, 624].
Missouri.
Operations in. Communications from
Homey, William 5., 654, 6~8, 66z-666, 668, 670.
Lyon, Nathaniel, 675.
[West, Dept. Hdqrs., 654, 6~8, 66i666, 668,670,
675.]
Mitchel, John C. [Mitchell, Lieutenant].
Montgomery, Alexander.
Correspondence with William S. Harney
[West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Moore, Maurice A. [Colonel].
Morris, William W. [Major].
Morton, J. St. Clair.
Correspondence With Harvey Prawn [Fla.,
Dept. Hdqrs.).
Page A005
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS.
Navarro, Angel [Captain].
Nelson, Governor H. [Captain].
New Mexico.
Operations in. Communications from
Canby, Ed R. S., 6o6.
Loring, W. W, ~ 6os, 6o~, 6o~.
[NewMex., Dept. Hdqrs., 599,602,604,605,606.]
Waite, Carlos A. [Tex., Dept. Iidqrsj.
Nolan, Mat. [Captain].
OBrien, John [I,ieutenant].
Ochiltree, W. B. [H.].
Owen, Clark Lewis [Olden, C. S.].
Pagan,James [Major].
Paul, Gabriel R.
Correspondence with W W. Loring [New
Mex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Pawnee, U. S. Steamer, s~o.
Peareson, F. A. [Pearson, Captain].
Peay, Gordon N [Peary, Alderman].
Peltyn, Samuel [Pettigru, Corporal].
Phillips, A. H.,jr. [Captain].
Phillips, ~ B. W. [Mr.].
Pickens, Fort, Fla.
Council of War, May 22, s86s, 115.
Pitts, William A. [Captain].
Pocahontas, U. S. Steamer, s~to.
Porcher, FrancisJ. [F. I.].
Porter, David D.
Correspondence with Harvey Broz n [Fla.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Preston, William G. [lieutenant]
Pyron, CharlesL. [Captain].
Quartermaster-Generals Office, U. S. A.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fin., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Randall, James [Private].
Ransom, James AL. [Lieutenant].
Ravenel [Ravenal], F. Priolean.
Rawlins, Wiiliam [Private].
Read, Edwin W. H. [F,. W.].
Reynolds, A. W.
Correspondence with Carlos A. Waite [Tax.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Rhett, Corporal, ~6 [52].
Biddell,John L. [Riddle, J. 14.].
[Robertson, J., Judge. Correspondence with
John Tyler, 253.]
Robins, John [Alderman].
Robinson, Samuel [Corporal].
Russell, John (Fortkeeper), 177.
Russell, John (Sum/er Guard), ~
Saint 14ouis Police Commissioners.
Correspondence with Willidm S. Homey
[West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
St. Paul, Henry [Captain].
Sands, Benjamin F., j~8 [Captain, 538].
Scaulan [Scanlon], Charles A.
Scarborough, A.J. [Captain].
Schuierle, John [General].
Searcy, Albert W. [Captain].
Shaffer, Theodore [Schaffer, Sergeant].
Shardine, PhilzIb [Sheridan, Sergeant].
Shufeldt, Robert W [N.].
Sibley, C. C.
Correspondence with
Waite, Carlos A. [rex., Dept. Edqrs.).
Sitgreaves, Julius A. [I,ieutenantj.
5
Smead, John B. [Mr.].
Smith, A. M. [Major].
Smith, Caleb B.
Smith, E. Kirby.
Mentioned, ~ [Smith, Captain, 595].
Susith, I,arkin.
Correspondence with
Waite, Carlos A. [Tex., Dept. Hdqrs. J.
Sparks,J. H. [Captain].
Stapp, B. M. [Captain].
Steele, William.
Correspondence with William S. Harney
[West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Stevens, Walter H., 6sz [Stevens, 14ieutenant,
6ii].
Stewart, Alexander [Private].
Stockton [Stocknian], Fort, Tax.
Sumter, Fort, S. C.
Bombardment, etc. Reports of
Alston [Allston], Charles, jr.
Talbot, William H. [Captain].
Teal, Trevanion T. [Captain].
Texas.
Operations in. Communications from
Edgar, William [W. M.].
[Tax., Dept. Hdqrs., 503, 514, 515, 521, 523525,
528, 531535, 540, 544546, 549, 550, 552, 579583,
~86, 587, 590.]
Tzviggs, David F?, 503, 511, 515, .579-585, ~86,
587,590.
Waite, Carlos A., 521525, ~s8, ,5515~5, 510, 511
516, 519 550, 552.
Texas, Department of (.6.).
Constituted, 623, 628.
Orders, General, series s86z. No. z, 628; No. 3,
631; No. ~, 632; No. ~, 6~i; No. 5, 571.
Van Dorn, Earl, assigned to and assumes co,n-
mand, 6sf, 6s8.
Texas, Governor of.
Correspondence with
[Tax., Dept. Hdqrs., 55i, 583.]
Twiggs, David F., 583.
Waite, (arlos A., ssi.
Texas Committee of Public Safety.
Correspondence with
[Tex4 Dept. Hdqrs., 513515, 525, 526, 528, 531,
545, 546, 548.]
Twiggs, David F., ~
Waite, Cailos A., 525. ~s6, ~s8, 531, 515, 546,
518.
Thornton [Thousson], William A.
Tobin, William G. [C.].
Todd,John B. [Colonel].
Tower, Zealous B.
Correspondence with
Brown, Harvey [Fin., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Tracey, A. Edward [Tracy, Private].
Tucker, John [Mr.].
Tucker, Sterling H. [Alderman].
Twiggs, David F.
Correspondence with
Adjt. Gen. s Office, C. S. A., ~8z, ~8s, ~ ~86.
Army Headquarters, 579-581. ~ 590.
Carpenter, S. D., 523.
Texas, Governor of 583.
Texas Committee of Public Safety, S.?-5s.
Waite, CarlosA.,~ss,584
Page A006
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIOYS.
Union, Fort, N. Mex., Commanding Officer.
Correspondence with W. W. Loring [New
Mex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Upton,John C. [Captain].
Van Horn,JamesJ. [Lieutenant].
Verde, Camp, Tex.
Abandoned by U. S. forces, 502.
Vinton, David H.
Correspondence with Car/os A. Waite [Tex.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Vogdes, Israel.
Correspondence with
Woo/jo/zn F. [East, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Wainwright, Robert A.
Correspondence with W. W. Loring [New
Mex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Wait, Wi/Sam B. [Waid, Alderman].
Waite, Carlos A.
Correspondence with
Army Headquarters, ~86, 587,589,598.
B/air, William B., 53o.
Carpenter, S. D., g~u.
Hi//, Bennett H., 535,536.
Johnson, Richard W,5941, Sql.
Jones, Thomas M., g~g.
Lander, F. W., .~5I.
McC/ure, Daniel, 529.
Mac/in, Sackfe/d, 5416, 5417, 5541.
Reynolds, A. W., 5419.
Sib/ey, C. C., 5341.
Smith, Larkin, 6oo, 6oi.
Texas, Governor of ~8i.
Texas Committee of Pub/ic Safety, 525,526,528,
531,5, 5416, 5418.
Twiggs, David F. [Tex., Dept. Hdqrs.].
Vinton, David H., 5241.
Whiteley, Robert H. K., 529.
Williams, Thomas G., 530.
Walker, James [Captain], 572, 631, 635 [Walker,
Captain, 572, 635].
Walker, Joseph [Colonel].
Walker, Luke [Orderly Sergeant].
Ward, Mayham W. [Captain].
Ward, William H [Mr.].
War Department, C. S.
Correspondence with
Beauregard, 0. T., 41641.
Bronaugh [Brougnab], W. N.
Hubert, F. [ ].
Jones, R. T. [ , Captain].
War Department, U. S.
Correspondence with
Lyon, Nathaniel [West, Dept. Hdqrs.].
Washington, Thornton A.
Watkins, George U [Alderman].
Whe/ess,James P. [Wheelis, Private].
Whiteley, Robert H. K.
Correspondence with Car/os A. Waite [Tex.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Whitney, Joseph, Steamer.
Wilcox, John A. [Captain], 6j~ [Wilcox, J. A., 635].
Williams, Joseph [Captain].
Williams, Thomas [T.] 0.
Correspondence with C~zr/os A. Waite [Tex.,
Dept. Hdqrs.].
Wilson, Joseph K., 567.*
Winder, Char/es S. [Captain].
Wood, Robert C., Jr.
Woo/John F.
Correspondence wi/h Israel Vogdes, 378.
Wright,James F. [Corporal].
Yates, Joseph A. [Lieutenant].
Veadon, Richard [Mr.].
Yu/ee [Vuell],
4
Page A007
Page A008
Page 1
CHAPTER I.
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
w
December 20, 1860April 14, 1861.
SUMMARV OF IPIIE PRINCIPAL EVENTS.
December 20,1860.Ordinance of secession adopted by the South Carolina Convention.
26,1860.United States troops, under command of Maj. R. Anderson, trans-
ferred from Fort Moultrie to Fort Sumter.
27, 1860.Castle Piuckney and Fort Moultrie seized by the State troops.
30, 1860.United States Arsenal at Charleston seized by the State troops.
January 2,1861.Fort Johnson seized by the State troops.
5,1861.First expedition for the relief of Fort Sumter sails from New York
Harbor.
9,1861.Steamship Star of the West fired upon by the State troops.
11, 1861.Surrender of Fort Sumter demanded of Major Anderson by the
governor of South Carolina and refused. *
March 1,1861.The Government of the Confederate States assumes controlof mili.
tary affairs at Charleston.
3,1861.Brig. Gen. G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, assumes command at
Charleston.
April 3,1861.Schooner Rhoda H. Shannon fired upon by the Confederate bat-
teries.
10,1861.Second expedition for the relief of Fort Sumter sails from New
York Harbor.
11, 1861.Evacuation of Fort Sumter demanded by General Beauregard.
1214,1861.Bombardment and evacut~tion of Fort Sumter.
REPORTS.t
No. 1.Maj. Robert Anderson, First U. S. Artillery, of the evacuation of Fort
Moultrie.
No. 2.Extracts from annual report of Capt. John G. Foster, U. S. Corps of Engineers,
relating to the evacuation of Fort Moultrie, the seizure of Castle Piuckney
and Fort Johnson, and operations at Fort Sumter.
No. 3.Ordnance Storekeeper F. C. Humphreys, U. S. Army, of the seizure of Charles-
ton Arsenal, and correspondence.
* No record of this transaction found in the files of the Department; but the demand
and refusal were published about the time stated, and that demand is referred to in
Foster to Totten, January 12, and in Holt to Hayne, February 6, 1861. See Corres~
pondence and Order8,~ ~)o8t.COMPILnn.
t Of the bombardment and evacuation of Fort Sumter, when not otherwise in~icated.
IR
Page 2
2
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
[CHAP. L
No. 4.Lient. Charles R. Woods, Ninth U. S. Infantry, of first expedition for relief
of Fort Sumter.
No. 5.Capt. G. V. Fox, U. S. agent, of second expedition for relief of Fort Sumter.
No. 6.Maj. Robert Anderson, First Artillery, commanding U. S. troops.*
No. 7.Engineer journal kept by Capt. John G. Foster, U. S. Corps of Engineers. *
No. 8.Brig. Gen. G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Confederate troops. *
No. 9.Brig. Gen. R. G. M. Dunovant, South Carolina Army.
No. 10.Brig. Gen. James Simous, South Carolina Army.
No. 11.Lient. Col. R. S. Ripley, South Carolina Army.
No. 12.Lient. Col. Wilmot G. De Saussure, South Carolina Army,
No. 13.Maj. P. F. Stevens, Sout]~ Carolina Army.
No. 14.Capt. R. Martin, South 4~arolina Army.
No. 15.Capt. William Butler, South Carolina Army.
No. 16.Capt. W. R. Calhoun, commanding Sumter battery, Fort Moulirie.
No. 17.Capt. J. H. Hallonquist, commanding mortar and enfilading batteries.
No. 18.Lieut. Thomas M. Wagner, South Carolina Army.
No. 19.Lient. Alfred Rhett, South Carolina Army.
No. 20.Lient. Jacob Valentine, South Carolina Army.
No. 21.Capt. G. B. Cuthbert, South Carolina Infantry.
No. 22.Capt. J. Gadsden King, South Carolina Militia.
No. 23.Lient. J. E. McP. Washington, South Carolina Army.
No. 24.Lient. C. W. Parker, South Carolina Army.
No. 25.Joint reports of James Chesnut, jr., Lient. Col. A. R. Chisolm, Capt. S. D.
Lee, and Messrs. John L. Manning, William Porcher Miles, and Roger A.
Pryor, aides-de-camp.
No. 26.Joint reports of Maj. D. R. Jones, assistant adjutant-general; and Col.
Charles Allston, jr., Commander H. J. Hartstene (C. S. Navy), and Messrs.
William Porcher Miles and Roger A. Pryor, aides.de-camp.
No. 27.Surg. Gen. R. W. Gibbes, South Carolina Army.
No. 28.Commander H. J. Hartstene, C. S. Navy.
No. 1.
Reports of Maj. Robert Anderson, U. S. Army, of the evacuation of Fort
]Ilioultrie, 5. 0.
No. 11.] FORT SUMTER, S. 0., December 26, 18608 p. m.
(Received A. G. 0., December 29.)
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I have just completed,
b~y the blessing of God, the removal to this fort of all of my garrison,
except the surgeon, four non-commissioned officers, and seven men.
We have one years supply of hospital stores and about four months
supply of provisions for my command. I left orders to have all the
guns at Fort Moultrie spiked, and the carriages of the 32-pounders,
which are old, destroyed. I have sent orders to Captain Foster, who
remains at Fort Moultrie, to destroy all the ammunition which he can-
not send over. The step which I have taken was, in my opinion, neces-
~ary to prevent the effusion of blood.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
CoL S. COOPER, Adjutant-General.
6 * See also Correspondence and Orders, po8t
Page 3
Cm~. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 3
[Telegram. I
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Adjutant- Generals Office, December 27, 1860.
Major ANDERSON, Fort ]tlioultrie:
Intelligence has reached here this morning that you have abandoned
Fort Moultrie, spiked your guns, burned the carriages, and gone to Fort
Sumter. It is not believed, because there is no order for any such
movement. Explain the meaning of this report.
J. B. FLOYD,
Secretary of War.
[Telegram.]
CHARLESTON, December 27, 1860.
Hon. J. B. FLOYD, Secretary of War:
The telegram is correct. I abandoned Fort Moultrie because I was
certain that if attacked my men must have been sacrificed, and the
command of the harbor lost. I spiked the guns and destroyed the
carriages to keep the guns from being used against us.
If attacked, the garrison would never have surrendered without a
fight.
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery.
No. 12.j FORT SUMTER, S. C., December 27, 1860.
(Received A. 0-. 0., December 31.)
COLONEL: I had the honor to reply this afternoon to the telegram
of the honorable Secretary of War in reference to the abandonment of
Fort Moultrie. In addition to the reasons given in my telegram and in
my letter of last night, I will add as my opinion that many things con-
vinced me that the authorities of the State designed to proceed to a
hostile act. Under this impression I could not hesitate that it was
my solemn duty to move my command from a fort which we could not
probably have held longer than forty-eight or sixty hours, to this one,
where my power of resistance is increased to a very great degree. The
governor of this State sent down one of his aides to-day and demanded,
courteously, but peremptorily, that I should return my command
to Fort Moultrie. I replied that I could not and would not do so. He
stated that when the governor came into office he found that there was
an understanding between his predecessor and the President that no
re-enforcements were to be sent to any of these forts, and particularly
to this one, and that I had violated this agreement by having re-enforced
this fort. I remarked that I had not re-enforced this command, but
that I had merely transferred my garrison from one fort to another,
and that, as the commander of this harbor, I had a right to move my
men into any fort I deemed proper. I told him that the removal was
made on my own responsibility, and that I did it because we were in a
position that we could not defend, and also under the firm belief that
it was the best means of preventing bloodshed. This afternoon ah
armed steamer, one of two which have been watching these two forts,
between which they have been passing to and fro or anchored for the
last ten nights, took possession by escalade of Castle Pinckney. Lieu-
tenant Meade made no resistance. He is with us to-night. They als
Page 4
4 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. ICHAP. I.
took possession to-night of Fort Moultrie, from which I withdrew the
remainder of my men this afternoon, leaving the fort in charge of the
overseer of the men employed by the Engineer Department. We have
left about one months and a half of provisions in that fort; also some
wood and coal and a small quantity of ammunition. We are engaged
here to-day in mounting guns and iu closing up some of the openings
for the embrasurestemporarily closed by light boards, but which
would offer but slight resistance to persons seeking entrance. If the
workmen return to their work, which I doubt, we shall be enabled in
three or four days to have a sufficient number of our guns mounted,
and be ready for anything that may occur.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General.
No. 2.
Extracts from annual report (October 1, 1861) of Capt. John G. Foster,
U. A3~ Corps of Engineers.
* * * * * * *
Castle Pinckney, Charlestoi~ Harbor, south Carolina.Some necessary
repairs were commenced upon this work in December, 1860, but before
these were completed the fort was seized by the troops of the State of
South Carolina, on the 27th of December.
Lient. B. K. Meade; Corps of Engineers, who was in the immediate
charge, was suffered to leave with the workmen; but all the public
property in the fort was taken possession ofi~~ including the mess property
and one months.provisions for the Engineer force. The armament of
the fort was all mounted, except two or three guns on the barbette tier
and one 42-pounder in the casemate tier. The carriages were in good
order, and pretty good. The magazine was well furnished with imple-
ments, and also contained some powder. The fort was repaired three
years ago, and was generally in excellent condition, one of the cisterns
only wanting repairs.
Port Johnson, Charleston, South Carolina.The barracks and quar-
ters were in such bad order as to be almost uninhabitable, and a
large sum would be needed to repair them. The position was taken
possession of by the State troops on the 2d of January, 1861. A small
battery of three guns was soon after built, adjoining the barracks.
Port Sumter, Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. Vigorous operations
were commenced on this fort in the mouth of August, 1860, with the
view of placing it in a good defensive position as soon as possible. The
casemate arches supporting the second tier of guns were all turned;
the granite flagging for the second tier was laid on the right face of the
work; the floors laid, and the iron stairways put up, in the east barracks;
the traverse circles of the first tier of guns reset; the bluestone flagging
laid in all the guns rooms of the right and left faces of the first tier;
and the construction of the embrasures of the second tier commenced
at the time the fort was occupied by Major Anderson8 command,
on the 26th of December, 1860. The fears of an immediate attack, and
disloyal feelings, induced the greater portion of the Engineer employ~s
to leave at this time. But those that remained, fifty-five in number
Page 5
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
5
reduced towards the end of the investment to thirty-five, were made
very effective in preparing for a vigorous defense.
The armament of the fort was mounted and supplied with maneu-
vering implements; machicoulis galleries, splinter-proof shelters, and
traverses were constructed; the openings left for the ciubrasures of the
second tier were filled with brick and stone and earth, and those in the
gorge with stone and iron and lead concrete; mines were established
in the wharf and along the gorge; the parade was cleared, anAl com-
munications opened to all parts of the fort and through the quarters.
The fort was bombarded on the 12th and 13th of April by the rebels,
and evacuated by Major Andersons command on the 14th of April.
During the bombardment, the officers quarters were set on fire by hot
shot from the rebel batteries, and they, with the roofs of the barracks,
were entirely consumed. The magazines were uninjured by the fire.
The bombardment dismounted one gun, disabled two others, and ruined
the stair towers and the masonry walls projecting above the parapet.
No breach was effected in the walls, and the greatest penetration made
by successive shots was twenty-two inches. Neatly all the material
that had been obtained to construct the embrasures of the second tier,
to flag this tier and the remainder of the first tier, and to finish the
barracks, was used up in the preparations for defense.
Fort illoultrie, Charleston ilarbor, South Garolina.The work of pre-
paring this fort for a vigorous defense commenced in August, 1860, and
was diligently prosecuted up to the day of its evacuation, December 26,
1860. In this time the large accumulation of sand, which overtopped the
scarp wall on the sea front, was removed to the front and formed into
a glacis; a wet ditch, fifteen feet wide, dug around the fort; two flank-
ing caponi~res of brick built, to flank with their fire the three water
fronts; a bastionet for musketry constructed at the northwest angle; a
picket fence built around the fort bordering the ditch, and protected
by a small glacis; merlons constructed on the whole of the east front;
communication opened through the quaiters, a bridge built, connecting
them with the guard-house, and the latter loopholed for musketry, so as
to serve for a citadel.
Means were also furnished to transport Major Andersons command,
and such public property as could be removed before the occupation
of Fort Moultrie by the rebels, to Fort Sumter. Before evacuating the
fort, the guns were spiked, the gun carriages on the front looking towards
Fort Sumter burned, and the flagstaff cut down. A considerable quan-
tity of Engineer implements and materials were unavoidably left in the
fort.
Respectfully submitted.
J. G. FOSTER,
Lvaptain, Engineers.
No.3.
Reports of and correspondence with Ordnance Storekeeper P. C. Hump hreys,
U. S. Army, in reference to seizure of Charleston Arsenal.
Capt. WM. MAYNAPIER, CHARLESTON, December 28, 1860.
Ordnance Bureau.~
A body of South Carolina military now surround the arsenal, out-
side, however, of the inclosure, but denying ingress or egress withou
Page 6
3
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
countersign. The officer in command disclaims any intention of occu-
pancy, and the United States flag is undisturbed. I await instructions.
F. C. IIUMPIIREYS.
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C.,
December 29, 1860.
Capt. WM. MAYNADIER,
In charge of Ordnance Bureau, Washington, D. C.:
SIR: I reported by telegraph on the 28th instant that this arsenal was
surrounded by a body of South Carolina militia, a~zid that myself and
the command are not allowed to pass in or out without a countersign.
Those in authority disclaim any intention of occupying the post, nor do
they molest the flag. I asked for instructions, but have received none.
I protest (the disclaimer notwithstanding) that this post is to all in-
tents and purposes in the possession of the South Carolina troops, and
also against the indignity offered me as an officer of the United States
Army, to say nothing of the annoyance the entire command is subjected
to by this measure.
I shall, therefore, unless otherwise instructed from the War Depart-
ment, make a formal protest against the posting of sentinels around
this arsenal, and request that they be removed, which, if denied, I shall
consider an occupancy of it by the State, and shall haul down my flag
and surrender.
I respectfully submit that such a course is proper, and due to myself
and the position I occupy as commanding officer.
Very respectfully, I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
F. C. IIUMPIIREYS,
Military Storekeeper Ordnance, Gommanding.
[Indorsement.] ORDNANCE OFFICE,
January 1, 1861.
Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War.
WM. MAYXADIER,
Captain of Ordnance.
[Inclosure.]
Abstract from muster-roll of F. C. Humphreys, military storekeeper of ordnance, dated to
include the 30th day of December, 1860.
Present: Brevet Col. Benjamin Huger, who assumed command No-
vember 20, by order of the Secretary of War, and who was absent under
orders from the Adjutant-Generals Office, dated December 1, 1860, and
assumed his former duty at Pikesville Arsenal, by instructions of thc
Secretary of War, dated December 15, 1860.
F. C. llumphreys, military storekeeper, who resumed command of
post December 7, 1860. Fourteen enlisted men.
F. C. IIUMPIIREYS,
Military Storekeeper, U. 8. Army.
CHARLESTON, S. C.,
December 30, 1860.
SIR: This arsenal has to-day been taken by force of arms. What
disposition am I to make of my command?
F. C. IIUMPIIREYS.
Capt. MAYNADIER,
In charge of Ordnance Bureau
Page 7
Cii& r. TI OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
7
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C.,
December 31, 1860.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the correspondence relative to the
surrendcr of this post yesterday to the authorities of this State. Trusting
that my course may meet the approval of the Department,
I am, sir, very respectfully,
F. C~ IIUMPIIREY,S,
Military Storekeeper Ordnance, U. S. A.
Capt. WM. MAYNADIER,
In charge of Ordnance Bureau, Washington, D. C.
[Inclosures.]
CHARLESTON, December 30, 186010k oclock a. m.
SIR: I herewith demand an immediate surrender of the U. S.
Arsenal at this place and under your charge, and a delivery to me of
the keys and coiitents of the arsenals, magazines, & c.
I am already proceeding to occupy it with a strong armed detachment
of troops.
I make the demand in the name of the State of South Carolina, and
by virtue of an order from its governor, a copy of which is inclosed.
Yery respectfully,
JOHN CUNNINGHAM,
Golonel Seventeenth Leg. Inf, S. C. AL
Capt. F. C. HUMPHREYS,
ililiilitary Storekeeper Ordnance.
HEADQUARTERS, CHARLESTON, S. C.,
December 29, 1860.
SIR: In the morning, after reporting yourself to Major-General
Schneirle, and informing him of this order, you are directed to get
from him a detachment of select men, and in the most discreet and
forbearing manner you will proceed to the U. S. Arsenal in Charles-
ton, and there demand, in my name, its entire possession, and state
distinctly that you do this with a view to prevent any destruction of
public property that may occur in the present excited state of the pub-
lic mind, and also as due to the public safety. You will then proceed
to take, in the most systematic manner, a correct inventory of every-
thing in said arsenal, and the exact state of all arms, & c.
You will read this order to Captain Humphreys, who is the United
States officer at the arsenal.
I do not apprehend any difficulty in giving up the same,but if refused,
then you are to take it, using no more force than may be absolutely
necessary, and with the greatest discretion and liberality to Captain
Hnmphreys, who is at perfect liberty to remain in his present quarters
as long as it may be agreeable for himself, and he is requested to do so.
Report a~7 soon as possible to me.
F. W. PICKENS.
Col. JOHN CUNNINGHAM.
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C.,
December 30, 1860.
SIR: I am constrained to comply with your demand for the surrender
of this arsenal,from the fact that I have no force for its defense. I do
so, however, solemnly protesting against the illegality of this measure
in the name of my Government
Page 8
8 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
I also demand, as a right, that I be allowed to salute my flag, before
lowering it, with one gun for each State now in the Union (32), and that
my command be allowed to occupy the quarters assigned them nntil
instructions can be obtained from the War Department.
Very respectfully, F. ~. fl7U~MPllREYS,
Military Storekeeper Ordnance, U. S. Army.
Col. JOHN CUNNINGHAM,
Seventeenth Regt. Infi, S. C. 111.
CHARLESTON, S (IX,
January 1, 1861.
What disposition shall I make of the detachment under my command?
We are very unpleasantly situated here.
F. C. IIUMPHREYS,
U. S. Army.
Capt. Wiw. MAYNADIER,
Charge of Ordnance Bureau.
ORDNANCE OFFICE,
January 2, 1861.
F. C. IIUMPHREYS,
U. S. Arsenal, Charleston, S. C.:
I want a report in detail of what has occurred; of the present position
and condition of your command and property; as regards quarters and
other accommodations, freedom of movement, and any statements or
views in the matter that you may deem proper for a full understanding.
W. MAYNADJER,
Captain of Ordnance.
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C.,
January 3, 1861.
SIR: I reeeived your dispatch last night and sent a reply by telegraph.
I will now proceed to make a detailed report of the facts relative to the
surrenderofthisarsenal,whichlshould have done before but that my
time has been fully occupied in getting proper vouchers for the property
recently in my charge.
On Sunday morning last Colonel Cunningham marched a strong de-
tachment of armed men into this arsenal (having several days before
entirely surrounded it outside of the inclosure) and demanded the surren-
der in the name of. South Carolina and by order of Governor Pickens.
Having no force to make a defense, I surrendered under a p?otest, and
demanded the privilege of saluting my flag before lowering it and of
taking it with me, and that the command should occupy the quarters
until instructions could be received from the War Department, which
was granted.
Soon after, the arsenal and magazine were both opened, and the
property has been constantly issued sincearms, ammunition, accouter-
ments, & c.
Myself and men and our families are very unpleasantly situated. Ther
Page 9
CHAP. I.J OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 9
are some 200 men here constantly, and we are in actual danger from
accident when so many inexperienced persons are at every turn with
loaded arms. Our movements are watched and restricted, and I would
earnestly request that we may be moved elsewhere. The times are so
unsettled that I have not issued to my command this month either sub-
sistence or fuelin fact, we have no conveniences for anything, and all
is confusion and turmoil.
I understand that all communication with Fort Sumter is cut off, and
that a barge with its men from that post has been captured at the city
wharf and are held in durance.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
F. C. HUMPHIREYS,
Iiililitary Storekeeper Ordnance, U. S. Army.
Capt. WM. MAYNADIER,
In charge of Ordnance Bureau, Washington, D. 0.
No. 4.
Reports of lieut. Charles R. Woods, Ninth U. ~ Infantry, of first expedition
for relief of Fort Sumter.
NEW YORK HARBOR,
January 12, 1861.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I reached this post at 8~
oclock this morning with my command, having been unable to reach
Fort Sumter. I will make a detailed report without delay.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHARLES R. WOODS,
First Lieutenant, Ninth Infantry.
Col. H. L. SCOTT, A. D. C.
FORT CoLuxIlnus, N. Y. H.,
January 13, 1861.
COLONEL: Pursuant to instructions, dated Headquarters of the Army,
January 5, 1861, I embarked on the evening of Saturday, 5th instant.
from Governors Island, at 6 oclock p. in., on a steam-tug, which trans1
ferred us to the steamer Star of the West.
My command consisted of two hundred men, recruits from the depot,
fifty of whom were of the permanent party. My officers were First Lient.
W. A. Webb, Fifth Infantry; Second Lient. C. W. Thomas, First In-
fantry, and Assist. Surg. P. CL S. Ten Broeck, Medical Department.
On Tuesday afternoon, 8th instant, arms and ammunition were issued
to all the men. About midnight same evening we arrived off Charleston
Harbor, and remained groping in the dark until nearly day, whell we
discovered the light on Fort Sumter, which told us where we were. The
other coast light marking the approaches to the harbor had been extin-
guished, and the outer buoy marking the channel across the bar gone.
During the night we saw what we supposed to be the light of a steamer
cruising off the harbor, but she did not discover us, as our lights were
all out. Just before day we discovered a steamer lying off the main
ship channel. As soon as they made us out they burned one blue light
and two red lights, and, receiving no response from us, immediatel
Page 10
10 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
steamed up the channel. As soon as we had light enough we crossed
the bar, and steamed up the main ship channel. This was on the first
of the ebb tide, the steamer ahead of ns firing rockets arid burning lights
as she went up. We proceeded without interruption until we arrived
within one and three-quarter miles of Forts Sumter and Moultriethey
being apparently equidistantwhen we were opened on by a masked bat-
tery near the north end of Morris Island. This battery was about five-
eighths of a mile distant from us, and we were keeping as near into it as
we could, to avoid the fire of Fort Moultrie. Before we were fired upon
we had discovered a red palmetto flag flying, but could see nothing to
indicate that there was a battery there.
We went into the harbor with the American ensign hoisted on the flag-
staff, and as soon as the first shot was fired a full-sized garrison flag was
displayed at our fore, but the one was no more respected than the other.
We kept on, still under the fire of the battery, most of the balls passing
over us, one just missing the machinery, another striking but a few feet
from the rudder, while a ricochet shot struck us in the fore-chains, about
two feet above the water line, and just below where the main was throw-
ing the lead. The American flag was flying at Fort Sumter, but we saw
no flag at Fort Moultrie, and there were no guns fired from either of these
fortifications.
Finding it impossible to take my command to Fort Sumter, I was
obliged most reluctantly to turn about, and try to make my way out of
the harbor before my retreat should be cut off by vessels then in sight,
supposed to be the cutter Aiken, coming down the channel in tow of a
steamer, with the evident purpose of cutting us off. A brisk fire was
kept up on us by the battery as long as we remained within range, but,
fortunately,~without damage to us, and we succeeded in recrossing the
bar in safety, the steamer touching two or three times. Our course was
now laid for New York Harbor, and we were followed for some hours by
a steamer from Charleston for the purpose of watching us.
During the whole trip downward the troops were kept out of sight
whenever a vessel came near enough to us to distinguish them, and the
morning we entered the harbor of Charleston they were sent down before
daylight, and kept there until after we got out of the harbor again. From
the preparations that had been made for us I have every reason to believe
the Charlestonians were perfectly aware of our coming.
We arrived in New York Harbor on the morning of the 12th instant,
and disembarked at 8 oclock this morning, the V3th, by orders from
Headquarters of the Army.
The conduct of the officers and men under my command during the
whole trip, and particularly while under fire, was nnexceptionable.
Capt. John McGowan, commanding the steamer Sfar of the West, de-
serves the highest praise for the energy, perseverance, and ability dis-
played in trying to carry out his orders to put the troops in Fort Sumter.
He was ably assisted by Mr. Walter Brewer, the New York pilot taken
from this place.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CHAS. R. WOODS,
First Lieutenant, Ninth Infantry, Commanding.
Cok L. THOMAS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. A., Washington. D. C
Page 11
CuAx. 1.1 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C~ 11
No. 5.
Report of Gapt. G. V. Fox, U. ~. agent, of second expedition for the relief
of Fort ,~umter.
STEAMER BALTIC,
New York, April 19, 1861.
SIR: I sailed from New York in this vessel Tuesday morning, the
10th instant, having dispatched one steam-tug, the Uncle Ben, the
evening previous to rendezvous off Charleston. The Yankee, another
chartered tug, followed us to the Hook, and I left instructions to send
on the Freeborn.
We arrived off Charleston the 12th instant, at 3 a. in., and found only
the Harriet Lane. Weather during the whole time a gale. At 7. a. m.
the Pawnee arrived, and, according to his orders, Captain Bowan an-
chored twelve miles east of the light, to await the arrival of the Pow-
hatan. I stood in with the Baltic to execute my orders by offering, in
the first place, to carry provisions to Fort Sumter. Nearing the bar it
was observed that war had commenced, and, therefore, the peaceful offei
of provisions was void.
The Pawnee and Lane immediately anchored close to the bar, not-
withstanding the heavy sea, and though neither tugs or Powhatau or
IPocahontas had arrived, it was believed a couple of boats of provisions
might be got in. The attempt was to be made in the morning, because
the heavy sea and absence of the Powhatans gunboats crippled the
night movement. All night and the morning of the 13th instant it blew
strong, with a heavy sea. The Baltic stood off and on, looking for the
Powhatan, and in running in during the thick weather struck on Rattle-
~snake Shoal, but soon got off. The heavy sea, and not having the
sailors (three hundred) asked for, rendered any attempt from the Baltic
aosurd. I only felt anxi6us to get in a few days provisions to last
the fort until the Powhatans arrival. The Pawnee and Lane were both
short of men, and were only intended to afford a base of operations
whilst the tugs and three hundred sailors fought their way in.
However, the Powhatan and tugs not coming, Captain Bowan seized
an ice schooner and offered her to me, which I accepted, and Lieutenant
Hudson, of the Army, several Navy officers, and plenty of volunteers
agreed to man the vessel, and go in with me the night of the 13th. The
events of that day, so glorious to Major Anderson and his command,
are known to you. As I anticipated, the guns from Sumter dispersed
their naval preparations excepting small guard-boats, so that with the
Powhatau a re-enforcement would have been easy. The Government
did not anticipate that the fort was so badly constructed as the event
has shown.
I learned on the 13th instant that the Powhatan was withdrawn from
duty off t~iarleston on the 7th instant, yet I was permitted to sail on
the 9th, the Pawnee on the 9th, and the Pocahontas on the 10th, with-
out intimation that the main portionthe fighting portionof our ex-
pedition was taken away. In justice to itself as well as an acknowl~dg-
ment of my earnest efforts, I trust the Government has sufficient reasons
for putting me in the position they have placed me.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
G. V. FOX.
The Baltic has been chartered for one mouth.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington
Page 12
12 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S C. [CHAP. I.
No. 6.
Reports of Maj. Robert Anderson, First U. S. Artillery, of the bombard
ment and evacuation of Port Sumter.
STEAMSHIP BALTIC, OFF SANDY box
April 18, [1861]1O.30 a. m.via New York.
Having defended Fort Sumter for thirty-four hours, until the quarters
were entirely burned, the maiu gates destroyed by fire, the gorge walls
seriously injured, the magazine surrounded by flames, and its door
closed from the effects of heat, four barrels and three cartridges of
powder only being available, and no provisions remaining but pork, I
accepted terms of evacuation offered by General Beauregard, being the
same offered by him on the 11th instant, prior to the commencement of
hostilities, and marched out of the fort Sunday afternoon, the 14th instant,
with colors flying and drums beating, bringing away company and pri-
vate property, and saluting my flag with fifty guns.
ROBERT ANDERSON
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
Hon. S. CAMERON,
Secretary of War, Washington.
NEW YORK, April 19, iSOL
COLONEL: I have the honor to send herewith dispatches Nos. 99 and
100,* written at but not mailed in Fort Sumter, and to state that I shall,
at as early a date as possible, forward a detailed report of the opera-
tions in the harbor of Charleston, S. C., in which my command bore a
part on the 12th and 13th instants, ending with the evacuation of Fort
Sumter, and the withdrawal, with the honors of war, of my garrison on
the 14th instant from that harbor, after having sustained for thirty-four
hours the fire from seventeen 10-inch mortars and from batteries of
heavy guns, well placed and well served, by the forces under the com-
mand of Brigadier-General Beauregard. Fort Sumter is left in ruins
from the effect of the shell and shot from his batteries, and officers of
his army reported that our firing had destroyed most of the buildings
inside Fort IMloultrie. God was pleased to guard my little force from
the shell and shot which were thrown into and against my work, and to
Him are our thanks due that I am enabled to report that no one was
seriously injured by their fire. I regret that I have to add that, in con-
sequence of some unaccountable misfortune, one man was killed, two
seriously and three slightly wounded whilst saluting our flag as it was
lowered.
The officers and men of my command acquitted themselves in a man-
ner which entitles them to the thanks and gratitude of their country,
and I feel that I ought not to close this preliminary report without say-
ing that I think it would be injustice to order them on duty of any kind
for some months, as both officers and men need rest and the recreation of
a garrison life to give them an opportunity to recover from the effects
of the hardships of their three months confinement within the walls of
Fort Sumter.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Regiment Artillery, & c.
See April 10 and 11, Correspondence and Orders, yost
Page 13
CHAP. Ii OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 13
P. S.I inclose herewith copies oC the correspondence between Gen-
eral Beauregard and myself.
iR.A.
Col. L. THOMAS,
Adjutant-General, Washington, D C.
[Inclosures.]
1.] HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY, C S. A.,
Charleston, 5. C., April 11, 1861.
Sin: The Government of the Confederate States has hitherto forborne
from any hostile demonstration against Fort Sumter, in the hope that
the Government of the United States, with a view to the amicable ad-
justment of all questions between the two Governments, and to avert
the calamities of war, would voluntarily evacuate it.
There was reason at one time to believe that such would be the course
pursued by the Government of the United States, and under that im-
pression my Government has refrained from making any demand for the
surrender of the fort. But the Confederate States can no longer delay
assuming actual possession of a fortification commanding the entrance
of one of their harbors, and necessary to its defense and security.
I am ordered by the Government of the Confederate States to demand
the evacuation ot Fort Sumter. My aides, Colonel Chesnut and Captain
Lee, are authorized to make such demand of you. All proper facilities
will be afforded for the removal of yourself and command, together
witli company arms and property, and all private property, to any post
in the United States which you may select. The flag which you have
upheld so long and with so much fortitude, under the most trying cir-
cumstances, may be saluted by you on taking it down.
Colonel Chesnut and Captain Lee will, for a reasonable time, await
your answer.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Commanding at Fort Sumter, ~Jharleston Harbor, S. C.
2.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 11, 1861.
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
communication demanding the evacuation of this fort, and to say, in
reply thereto, that it is a demand with which I regret that my sense of
honor, and of my obligations to my Government, prevent my compli-
ance. Thanking you for the fair, manly, and courteous terms proposed,
and for the high compliment paid me,
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Provisional Army.
3.] HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY, C. S. A
- Charleston, & C., April 11,1861.
MAJOR: In consequence of the verbal observation made by you to
my aides, Messrs. Chesnut and Lee, in relation to the condition of you
Page 14
14 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
supplies, and that you would ~in a, few days be starved out if our guns
did not batter you to pieces, or words to that effect, and desiring no
useless effusion of blood, I communicated both the verbal observations
and your written answer to my communications to my Government.
If you will state the time at which you will evacuate Fort Sumter,
and agree that in the mean time you will not use your guns against us
unless ours shall be employed against Fort Sumter, we will abstain
from opening fire upon you. Colonel Chesnut and Captain Lee are
authorized by me to enter into such an agreement with you. You are,
therefore, requested to communicate to them an open answer.
I remain,major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
Commanding Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, S. C.
4.] FORT SUMTER, S C., April 12, 186L
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt by Colonel
Chesnut of your second communication of the 11th instant, and to
state in reply that, cordially uniting with you in the desire to avoid
the useless effusion of blood, I will, if provided with the proper and
necessary means of transportation, evacuate Fort Sumter by noon on
the 15th instant, and that I will not in the mean time open my fires
npon your forces unless compelled to do so by some hostile act against
this fort or the flag of my Government by the forces under your com-
mand, or by some portion of them, or by the perpetration of some act
showing a hostile intention on your part against this fort or the flag it
bears, should I not receive prior to that time controlling instructions
from my Government or additional supplies.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedieut servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, 6!ommanding.
Brig. Gen. BEAUREGARD, Com~~~anding.
5.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 12, 18613.20 a. m.
SIR: By authority of Brigadier-General Beauregard, commanding
the Provisional Forces of the Confederate States, we have the honor to
notify you that he will open the fire of his batteries on Fort Sumter
in one hour from this time.
We have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servants,
JAMES CHESNUT, JR.,
Aide-de-6~amp.
STEPHEN D. LEE,
L1aptain, C. S. Army, Aide-de-C~~mp.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
U. S. Army, (Jommanding Fort Sumter.
6.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 13, 186120 nAn. past 2 oclock.
GENERAL: I thank you for your kindness in having sent your aide to
me with an offer of assistance upon your having observed that our flag
was downit being down a .few moments, and merely long enough to
enable us to replace it on another stalL Your aides will inform you of
the circumstance of the visit to my fort by General Wigfall, who said
that he came with a message from yourself
Page 15
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 15
In the peculiar circumstances in which I am now placed in conse-
quence of that message, and of my reply thereto, I will now state that
I am willing to evacuate this fort upon the terms and conditions offered
by yourself on the 11th instant, at any hour you may name to-morrow,
or as S00~ as we can arrange means of transportation. I will not
replace my flag until the return of your messenger.
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Charleston, S. C.
7.] HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY, C. S. A.,
April 13, 18615 mm. to 6 oclock p. m.
SIR: On being informed that you were in distress, caused by a con-
flagration in Fort Sumter, I immediately dispatched my aides, Colonels
Miles and Pryor, and Captain Lee, to offer you any assistance in my
power to give.
Learning a few moments afterwards that a white flag was waving
on your ramparts, I sent two others of my aides, Colonel Allston and
Major Jones, to offer you the following terms of evacuation: All proper
facilities for the removal of yourself and command, together with com-
pany arms and private property, to any point within the United States
you may select.
Apprised that you desire the privilege of saluting your flag on retir-
ing, I cheerfully concede it,in consideration of the gallantry with which
you have defended the place under your charge.
.The Catawba steamer will be at the landing of Sumter to-morrow
morning at any hour you may designate for the purpose of transporting
you whither you may desire.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Maj. B. ANDERSON,
First Artillery, L1ommanding Fort Sumter, S. C.]
8.] HEADQUARTERS, FORT SUMTER, S. C.,
April 13, 18617.5() p. m.
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
communication of this evening, and to express my gratification at its
contents. Should it be convenient, I would like to have the Catawba
here at about nine oclock to-morrow morning.
With sentiments of the highest regard and esteem, I am, general,
very respectfully, your obedient servant
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD, Major, U. & Army, Commanding.
Commanding Provisional Army, C. S.
9.] HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES, C. S. A.,
Charleston, April 15, 1861.
The commanding general directs that the commanding officer of the
garrison of Fort Sumter will bury the unfortunate soldier who has
been accidentally killed by explosion of misplaced powder while salutin
Page 16
[OHAP. 1.
16 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
his flag. He will be buried with all the honors of war in the parade
of the fort.
By order of Brigadier-General Beauregard:
W. II. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Engineer General.
Copy furnished to.
Major ROBERT ANDERSON, U. S., First Regiment of Artillery.
P. S.The wounded will receive the best attention, and will be
placed in the State hospital.
By order of General Beauregard: ~. H. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Engineer General.
WAR DEPARTiVEENT,
Washington, April 20, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSO~T,
Late Commanding at Fort Sumter~
M~ PENn SIR: I am directed by the President of the United States
to communicate to you, and through you to the officers and the men
under your command, at Forts Moultrie and Sumter, the approbation
of the Government of your and their judicious and gallant conduct
there, and to tender to you and them the thanks of the Government for
the same.
I am, sir, very respectfully, SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
No. 7.
Engineer journal of the bombardment of Fort Sumter. By Capt. J. U.
Foster, Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army.
NEW YoRK, October 1, 1861.
April 9, 1861.The four-gun battery on the upper end of Sullivans
Island that was unmasked yesterday morning by blowing up the wooden
house standing in front of it was situated very nearly upon the pro-
lonoation of the capital of this fort, and, therefore, could enfilade the
terre-pleins of both flanks of the work, as well as sweep, to a certain
extent, the outside of the scarp wall of the left flank, where alone a
vessel of any considerable draught of water could lie near to the fort
and discharge her cargo. It therefore became a matter of importance
to provide traverses to intercept the fire along the barbette tier of the
right flank, as this contains the heaviest battery, intended to operatc
both upon Fort Moultrie and Cummings Point, and also to prepare
means for quickly unloading any vessel that may run in alongside the
left flank with supplies for the garrison.
For the first purpose I commenced to prepare (for want of sand bags)
& la~rge double curb of boards and scantling, to be elevated upon the
top of the parapet at the right shoulder angle, and being filled with
earth hoisted from the parade, to serve for a traverse to protect this
flank
Page 17
CHAP. I] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 17
For the second I prepared ladders and runways to take in re-enforce-
ments and provisions at the embrasures rapidly, one embrasure being
enlarged so as to admit barrels, and also cleared the passage around to
the main gate. A large stone traverse was also commenced to cover
the main gates front the fire from Cummings Point. The masons were
put at work cutting openings through the walls of the officers quarters
so as to admit a free communication through theni, on the first and
second floors, from one flank to the other. The battery in the right
shoulder angle, first tier, was also being improved by substituting a 42-
pounder for a 32-pounder, cutting into the magazine wall, so as to
allow the gun on the gorge to be used against the batteries, and cutting
away one side of the embrasure, so as to allow the first gun on the right
flank to be used in the same way.
The quantity of bread became very small, and only half-rations of
it were allowed to the men. Tue enemys steamers were very active
carrying supplies to their batteries.
April 10.Every one, by order of the commanding officer, Major
Anderson, changed his quarters into the gun casemates to-day. The
work on the traverse progressed well. Lieut. 11. K. Meade, Engineers,
being placed on ordnance duty, found the supply of cartridges on hand
to be too small, and took immediate measures to increase the supply
by cutting np all the surplus blankets and extra company clothing to
make cartridge bags. The curb for the traverse at the right shoulder
angle was completed and put together on the terre-plein at nightfall,
and after dark raised up on the parapet and filled with earth, which had
been hoisted from the parade. The working party, nuder Lieutenant
Snyder, increased by a large detail from the command, completed this
work about midnight.
The supply of bread failed to-day, and its absence was supplied by rice
obtained by picking over some damaged rice, which, while spread out to
dry in one of the quarters, had been filled with pieces of glass from the.
window-panes shattered by the concussion of guns fired in practice..
A second battery was unmasked to-day on Sullivans Island, nearer
the western point of the island than the one last discovered. It is of
one gun, and very heavyevidently a 9-inch Dahlgren gun, or aT 10-inch
coluinbiad.
The enemys steamers were very active at night, but no alarm
occurred.
April 11.At early dawn I detected the presence of the floating bat-.
tery on the npper end of Sullivans Island. it is situated between the
end of the jetty and the steamboat wharf where, evidently distrusting
her qualities as a floating battery intended to breach the gorge wall at
short range, she has been run on shore at high water, and, being left by
the receding tide, has become a fixed battery. Her position gives her
the advantage of sweeping with her guns the whole of the left flank of
the fort, and thus rendering it impossible for any vessel with supplies~
to lie anywhere along this flank, while the breakwater in front protects
her from onin~ ricochet shots.
The stone traverse at the gorge has been raised to-day high enough
to protect the main gate, and the traverse on the top of the parapet
has been strengthened by the addition of sand bags on the top and sides,
and braced in the rear by extra gun carriages. The communications. cut
through the walls of the quarters are finished, and all the water pipes
and faucets prepared for use in case of fire. The third splinter-proof
shelter on the right flank, barbette tier is finished. These shelters are
formed of the timbers of extra gun carriages inclined against the-interior
2R
Page 18
18 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
slope, and covered with 2 inch embrasure irons, securely spiked down.
Shot and shells have been distributed to the gnns, and about 700
cartridges reported ready. The work of making cartridge bags is slow,
owing to there being on1y six needles in the fort.
The enerny~s steamers are very active carrying supplies and hospital
stores to the batteries on Cummings Point.
At 4 p. m. three aides of General Beauregard (Colonel Chesnut,
Colonel Chisolm, and Captain Lee) came as bearers of a demand for
the snrrender of the fort. The unanimous decision of the officers in
council was in the negative, and a written answer, in accordance, was
returned by Major Anderson.
April 12.At 1 a. m. four aides of General Beauregard (Colonel
Chesnut, Colonel Chisolm, Captain Lee, and Mr. Pryor, of Virginia)
came with a second letter, stating that as Major Anderson had been
nnderstood to make the remark to the bearers of the first letter, in
taking leave, that he would await the first shot, and if not battered
to pieces, would be starved out in a few days,~ it was desired to know
what importance might be attached to it. The reply of Major Anderson
did not satisfy the aides, who were authorized in that case to give notice
that the fire would open. Accordingly, on leaving at 34- a. in., they
gave notice that their batteries would open in one hour.
At 4~4 a. m. a signal shell was thrown from the mortar battery on
James Island; after which the fire soon became general from all the
hostile batteries.. These batteries were, as nearly as could be ascer-
tained, armed as follows, viz~
On Morris Jimland: Breaching battery No. 1, two 42-pounders; one
12-pounder Blakely rifled gun. Mortar battery (next to No. 7), four
10-inch mortars. Breaching bgttery No. 2 (iron-clad battery), three
8-inch columbiads. Mortar battery (next to No. 2), three 10-inch
mortars.
On James Island; Battery at Fort Johnson, three 24-pounders (only
one of them bearing on Fort Sumter). Mortar battery south of Fort
Johnson, four 10-inch mortars.
Ort Sullivans Island: Iron-clad (floating) battery, four 42-pounders.
Coluinbiad battery No. 1, one 9-inch Dahlgren gun. Columbiad bat-
tery No. 2, four 8-inch columbiads. Mortar battery west of Fort Moul-
trie, three 10-inch mortars. Mortar battery on parade, in rear of Fort
Moultrie, two 10-inch mortars. Fort Moultrie, three 8-inch column-
biads; two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers; five 32-pounders; four 24-pound-
ers. At Mount Pleasant, one 10-inch mortar.
Total, firing on Fort Sumter, 30 guns, 17 mortars.
At 7 a. in. the guns of Fort Sumter replied, the first shot being fired
~from the battery at the right gorge angler in charge of Captain Double-
day. All the officers and soldiers of Major Andersons command were
divided into three reliefs, of two hours each, for the service of the guns,
Lieutenants Snyder and Meade, of the Engineers, taking their turns
with the other officers in the charge of batteries.
Of the forty-three workmen constituting the Engineer force in the fort
nearly all volunteered to serve as cannoneers, or to carry shot and car-
tridge to the guns.
The armament of the fort was as follows, viz:
Barbette tier: Eight flank, one 10-inch columbiad, four 8-inch colum-
biads, four 42-pounders. Eight face, none. Left face, three 8-inch sea-
coast howitzers, one 32-pounder. Left flank, one 10-inch columbiad,
two 8-inch columbiads, two 42-pounders. Gorge, one 8-inch sea-coast
]towitzer, two 32-pounders, six 24-pounders. Total in barbette, 27 guns
Page 19
CHArT.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 19
Gasemate tier: Right flank, one 42-pounder, four 32-ponnders. Right
face, three 42-pounders. Left face, ten 32-pounders. Left flank, five
32-pounders. Gorge, two 32-pounders. Total in casemate, 21 guns.
Total available in both tiers, 48 guns.
Besides the above, there were arranged on the parade, to serve as
mortars, one 10-inch columbiad to throw shells into Charle,ston and
four 8-inch columbiads to throw shells into the batteries on Cumminos
Point. The casemate guns were the only ones used. Of these, those
that bore on Cummings Point were the 42-pounder in the pan-coup6 of
the right gorge angle, the 32-pounder next to it on the gorge, which,
by cutting into the brick wall, had been made to traverse sufficiently,
and the 32-pounder next the angle on the right flank, which, by cutting
away the side of the embrasure, had been made to bear on a portion of
the Point, although not on the breaching batteries.
The guns of the first tier, that bore on Fort Johnson, were four 32.
pounders on the left flank. (Of these, one embrasure had been, by
order, bricked up.)
The guns that bore on the three batteries on the west end of Sulli-
vans Island were ten 32-pounders, situated on the left face, and one at
the pan-coup6 of the salient angle (four embrasures being bricked up).
The guns bearing on Fort Moultrie were two 42-pounders, situated
on the right face, and one at the p.an-coup6 of the right shoulder angle.
The supply of cartridges, 700 in number, with which the engagement
commenced, became so much reduced by the middle of the day, although
the six needles in the fort were kept steadily employed, that the firing
was forced to slacken, and to be confined tQ six gunstwo firing towards
Morris Island, two towards Fort Moultrie, and two towards the batteries
on the west end of Sullivans Island.
At 1 oclock two United States men-of-war were seen otT the bar, and
soon after a third appeared.
The fire of our batteries continued steadily until dark. The eff~ct
of the fire was not very good, owing to the insufficient caliber of the
guns for the long range, and not much damage appeared to be done to
any of the batteries, except those of Fort Moultrie, where our two 42-
pounders appeared to have silenced one gun for a time, to have injured
the embrasures considerably, riddled the barracks and quarters, and
torn three holes through their flag. The so-called floating battery was
struck very frequently by our shot, one of them penetrating at the angle
between the front and roof, entirely through the iron covering and wood-
work beneath, and wounding one man. The rest of the 32-pounder
balls failed to penetrate the front or the roof, but were deflected from
their surfaces, which were arranged at a suitable angle for this purpose.
We could not strike below the water line on account of the sea wall
behind which the battery had been grounded, and which was just high
enough to allow their guns to fire over it, and to intercept all of our
ricochet shots.
The columbiad battery and Dahlgren battery near the floating battery
did not appear to be much injured by the few shot that were fired at
them. Only one or two shots were fired at Fort Johnson an
Castle Piuckney or the city. , d none at
Our fire towards Morris Island was mainly directed at the iron-clad
battery, but the small caliber of our shot failed to penetrate the cover-
ing, when struck fairly. The aim was, therefore, taken at the embra-
sures, which were struck at least twice, disabling the guns for a time.
One or two shots were thrown at the reverse of batteries 3 and 4, scat-
tering some groups of officers and men on the lookout, and cutting dow
Page 20
20 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
a small flagstaff on one of the batteries. At one time during the day
a revenue schooner which had been seized by the insurgents was ob-
served lying at anchor between Sullivans Island and Mount Pleasant.
Lieutenant Snyder, Corps of Engineers, who had charge i~.t this time of
the battery firing in this direction, directed two or three shots at her
~xith such effect as to put one of them through the vessel and cause her
to haul down her colors, the flag of the so-called Confederate States, to
hoist her anchor and sails, and get out of range as soon as possible.
One or two shots were thrown at the hulks which had been anchored
in the channel, on a line between Cummings Point and Fort Moultrie,to
be fired at night if our fleet should attempt to come in. As no person
appeared on board, the fire was not continued in this direction.
The barracks caught fire three times during the day, from shells,
apparently, but each time the flames, being in the first or second stories,
were extinguished by a pump and application of the means at hand.
Peter Hart, who was formerly a sergeant in Major ~ company,
and employed by me at the time as a carpenter, was very active and
efficient in extinguishing the flames.
The effect of the enemys fire upon Fort Sumter during the day was
very marked in respect to the vertical fire. This was so well directed
and so well sustained, that from the seventeen mortars engaged in firing
10inch shells, onehalf of the shells came within or exploded above the
parapet of the fort, and only about ten buried themselves in the soft
earth of the parade without exploding. In consequence of this pre-
cision of vertical fire, Major Anderson decided not to man the upper
tier of guns, as by doing so the loss of men, notwithstanding the
traverses and bomb-proof shelters that I had constructed, must have
been great. These guns were therefore only fired once or twice by some
men who ventured upon the parapet for this purpose. In doing this
they managed without much care, producing little or no effect upon the
enemy, besides doing injury to the guns. At the third fire of the 10-inch
~columbiad at the right gorge angle, it was omitted to throw the friction
wheels out of bearing, and consequently in the recoil the gun ran
entirely off its chassis, overturning itself; and in its fall dismounting
the 8-inch sea-coast howitzer next to it.
The direction of the enemys shells being from the northeast, north,
southwest, and southeast, sought every part of the work, and the fuses
being well graduated, exploded in most instances just within the line
of parapet. To this kind of fire no return was made. The four 8-inch
columbiads that I had planted in the parade to be used as mortars on
Cummings Point were not used, neither was the 10-inch columubiad,
arranged to fire shot and shells towards the city. The hot-shot furnaces
were not used nor opened. The effect of the direct fire from the enemys
guns was not so marked as the vertical. For several hours firing from
the commencement a large proportion of their shot missed the fort.
Subsequently it improved, and did considorable damage to the roof and
upper story of the barracks and quarters, and to the tops of the chimneys
on the gorge. The aim of the guns dining the day, with the exception
of batteries Kos. 1 and 2, on Cummings Point, appeared to be directed
to dismount the guns of our barbette tier. Those from Fort Moultrie
succeeded in dismounting an 8-inch columbiad, and in striking on its
side and cracking a second 8-inch colurubiad, both situated on the right
flank. The roof of the barracks on this flank and the stair towers were
much damaged by this fire.
The shots from the guns in the batteries on the west end of Sullivans
Island did not produce any considerable direct effect, but many of the
Page 21
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 21
took the gorge in reverse in their fall, completely riddling the officers
quarters, even dowu to the first story, so great was the angle of hill
of many of the balls.
Three of the iron cisterns over the hallways were destroyed by shots
during the day, and the quarters below deluged by their contents of
water, aiding in preventing the extension of the fire. The shots from
these batteries and from Fort iMoultrie, aimed at the embrasures,
failed to produce any effect. None of the shot came through, although
one shell exploded in the month of one embrasnre.
A part of the guns from Cummings Point essayed to dismount the
barbette tier on the gorge, and the remainder to breach the gorge, or
rather the pan-coupe at the right gorge angle. At this latter point,
two columbiads and a Blakely rifled gun fired almost constantly. The
effi~ct of this fire on this day was to breach around the embrasure of
the first tier at the pan-conp6 to a depth of twenty inches, and to put
one shot through the filling, consisting of brick and bluestone com-
bined, with which the embrasure opening of the second tier had been
filled. One shot was also put through the top of a loophole window
on the second tier, another through the top of the main gate, and a
third through the magazine ventilator at the right of the gorge, falling
between the pier and the inner wooden ceiling.
Three of the embrasnre cheek-irons that I had placed in the second
tier loopholes, were knocked out of place. Several of the stones that
had been placed in the first tier loopholes were struck, but owing to
the lead run in around them to hold them in place none were broken.
The penetration of the 8-inch columbiad balls from Cnmmings Point
was eleven inches at the first shotand that of the twelve-pound bolt
from the Blakely gun was the same, as ascertained by measurement.
The latter, however, threw its shot with greater accuracy, and with less
time of flight, than the former. The distance was about 1,250 yards.
The shot from Cummings Point that passed a little over the gorge
took the left face in reverse, damaging the masonry of the parade wall,
coping, & c., and splintering the chassis of one gun in barbette. As an
instance of strength of masonry, I may mention that one 10-inch shell
from Cummings Point fell upon the second tier casemate arch, which
was not covered by concrete or flagging, and so good was the masonry
of this 15-inch arch that the shell did not go through, although it
bedded itself and broke off from the soffit below a large fragment of
brickwork.
The night was very stormy, with high wind and tide. I found out,
however, by personal inspection, that the exterior of the work was not
damaged to any considerable extent, and that all the facilities for tak-
ing in supplies, in case they arrived, were as complete as circumstances
would admit. The enemy threw shells every ten or fifteen minutes
during the night. The making of cartridge bags was continued by the
men, nuder Lieutenant Meades directions, until 12 oclock, when they
were ordered to stop by Major Anderson. To obtain materials for the
bags all the extra clothing of the companies was cut up, and all coarse
paper and extra hospital sheets used.
April 13.At daybreak no material alteration was observed in the
enemys batteries. The three U. S. men-of war were still off the bar.
The last of the rice was cooked this morning, and served with the
porkthe only other article of food left in the engineer mess-room,
where the whole command has messed since the opening of the fire.
After this the fire was reopened, and continued very briskly as long as
the increased supply of cartridges lasted. The enemy reopened fire a
Page 22
22 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
daylight, and continued it with rapidity. The aim of the enemys gun-
ners was better than yesterday. One shot from the rifled gun in the
battery on Cummings Point struck the cheek of an embrasure in the
right gorge angle, and sent a large number of fragments inside, wound-
ing a sergeant and three men. The spent ball also came in with the
fragments. An engineer employ6, Mr. John Swearer, from Baltimore,
Md., was severely wounded by pieces of a shell which burst inside the
fort close to the casemates. On& ~ or two balls also penetrated the filling
of the embrasure openings of the second tier, but fell entirely spent in-
sideone of them setting a mans bed on fire.
It soon became evident that they were firing hot shot from a large
number of their guns, especially from those in Fort Moultrie, and at nine
oclock I saw volumes of smoke issuing from the roof of the officers quar-
ters, where a shot had just penetrated. From the exposed position it
was utterly impossible to extinguish the flames, and I therefore imme-
diately notified the commanding officer of the flict, and obtained his per-
mission to remove as much powder from the magazine as was possible
before the flames, which were only one set of quarters distant, should
encircle the magazine and rake it necessary to close it. All the men
and officers not engaged at the guns worked rapidly and zealously at
this, but so rapid was the spread of the flames that only fifty barrels of
powder could be taken out and distributed aroand in the casemates be-
fore the fire and heat made it necessary to close the magazine doors and
pack earth against them. The men then withdrew to the casemates on
the faces of the fort. As soon as the flames and smoke burst from the
roof of the quarters the enemys batteries redoubled the rapidity of their
fire, firing red-hot shot from most of their guns. The whole range of
officers quarters was soon in flames. The wind being from the south-
ward, communicated fire to the roof of the barracks, and this being aided
by the hot shot constantly lodging there, spread to the en tire roofs of
both barracks, so that by twelve oclock all the woodwork of quarters
and of upper story of barracks was in flames. Although the floors of
the barracks were fire-proof, the utmost exertions of the officers and
men were often required to prevent the fire communicating down the
stairways, and from the exterior, to the doors, window frames, and other
woodwork of the east barrack, in which the officers an(l men had taken
their quarters. All the woodwork in the west barraek was burned.
The clouds of smoke amid cinders which were sent into the casemates by
the wind set on fire many boxes, beds, and other articles belonging to
the men, and made it dangerous to retain the powder which had been
saved from the magazine. The commanding officer accordingly gave
orders to have all but five barrels thrown out of the embrasures into the.
water, which was (lone.
The small stock of cartridges now only allowed a gun to be fired at
intervals of ten minutes. The flagstaff wa~ struck by shot seven times
dnring the (lay, and a fragment of shell cut the lanyard of the flag
The part thus cut was so connected that the flag mnst have come down
by the run had not the flag been, as it was, twisted around both parts
of the lanyard. Daring the night I endeavored to remedy this by low-
ering the topmast so as to reeve a new halyard, but failed iii conse-
quence of the sticking of the mast, which was swollen by the rain. The
most that could be (lone was to reeve the uncut part of tIme lanyard
through a block attached to the topmast, as high up as a man could
climb, so that if the flag untwisted and came down it could be imume-
diately rehoisted as high as this block.
As the fire reached the magazines of grenades that were arranged i
Page 23
CHAP. Ii OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 23
the stair towers and implement rooms on the gorge, they exploded,
completely destroying the stair towers at the west gorge angle, and
nearly destroying the other.
At 1 oclock the flagstaff, having been struck tx~ice before this morn-
ing, fell. The flag w~s immediately secnred by Lieutenant Hall, and as
soon as it could be attached to a temporary staff, hoisted again upon
the parapet at the middle of the right face by Lieutenant Snyder, Corps
of Engineers, assisted by Hart, and Davey, a laborer.
About this time information was brought to the commanding officer
that Mr. Wigfall, bearing a white flag, was on the outside, and wished
to see him. He accordingly went out to meet Mr. Wigfall, passing
through the blazing gateway, accompanied by Lieutenant Snyder. In
the mean time, however, Mr. Wigfall had passed to an embrasure on
the left dank, where, upon showing the white flag upon his s~ ord, he
was permitted to enter, and Lieutenant Snyder entering immediately
after, accompanied him down the batteries to where some other officers
were posted, to whom Mr. Wigfall commenced to address himself to the
effect that he came from General Beauregard to desire that, inasmuch
as the flag of the fort was shot down, a fire raging in the quarters, and
the garrison in a great strait, hostilities be suspended, and the white
flag raised for this object. He was replied to that our flag was again
hoisted on the parapet, that the white flag would not be hoisted except
by order of the commanding officer, and that his own batteries should
set the example of suspending fire. He then referred to the fact of the
batteries on Cummings Point, from which he came, having stopped fir-
ing, and asked that his own white flag might be waved to indicate to
the batteries on Sullivans Island to cease also. This was refused but
he was permitted to wave the white flag himself, getting into an em-
brasure for this purpose. Having done this for a few moments, Lieu-
tenant Davis, First Artillery, permitted a corporal to relieve him. Very
soon, however, a shot striking very near to the embrasure, the corporal
jumped inside, and declared to Mr. Wigfall that he would not hold his
flag, for it was not respected.
At this moment the commanding officer, having re-entered through
an embrasure, came up. To him Mr. Wigfall addressed nearly the same
remarks that he had used on entering, adding some complimentary
things about the manner in which the defense had been made, and end-
ing by renewing the request to suspend hostilities in order to arrange
terms of evacuation. The commanding officer desiring to know what
terms he came to offer, Mr. Wigfall replied, Any terms that you may
desireyour own termsthe precise nature of which General Beaure-
gard will arrange with yon.~~
The commanding officer then accepted the conditions, saying that the
terms he accepted were those proposed by General Beauregard on the
11th, namely: To evacuate the fort with his command, taking arms and
all private and company property, saluting the United States flag as it
was lowered, and being conveyed, if he desired it, to any northern port.
With this understanding Mr. Wigfall left, and the white flag was raised
an(l the United States flag lowered by order of the commanding officer.
Very soon after a boat arrived from the city, containing three aides of
General Beauregard, with a message to the effect that, observing the
white flag hoisted, General B. sent to inquire what aid he could lend in
extinguishing the flames, & c. Being made acquainted with the condi-
tion of affairs and Mr. Wigfalls visit, they stated that the latter, although
an aid of General Beauregard, had not seen him for two days.
The commanding officer thefi stated that the United States fla
Page 24
24 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CLIAP. I.
would be raised again, but yielded to the request of the aides for time
to report to their chief and obtain his instructions. They soon returned,
with the approval of all the conditions desired except the saluting of
the flag as it was lowered, and this exception was subsequently removed
after correspondence. In the morning communication was had with
the fleet, and Captain Gillis paid a visit to the fort.
The evacuation was completed after saluting the flag, in doing which
one man was instantly killed, one mortally and four severely wounded,
by the prematnre discharge of a gnu and explosion of a pile of cartri(lges.
The whole command went on board a steamer which placed them on
board the Isabel, where they remained all night.
April 14.The Isabel went over the bar and placed the whole com-
mand on board the steamer Baltic, which started for New York.
April 17.Arrived in New York.
The following observations may be made upon the bombardment:
The enemys fire on the secoiid day, the 13th, was more rapid and
more accurate than on the previous day. it seemed to be directed at
the embrasures, and to set the quarters on fire. The latter object was
fully attained, but not the former, for only two embrasures were struck
one at the right gorge angle by the rifled shot mentioned above, and
the other at the left shoulder angle by a shot from the so-called floating
battery, which struck the shhtter, but without destroying it or entering
the throat of the embrasure. The attempt to form a breach at the right
gorge angle only succeeded in breaching around one embrasure to the
depth of twenty-two inches, and in knocking off a large piece of one
cheek, but without disabling the gun or rendering the embrasure ineffi-
cient. The barbette tier was not much injured by the second days
firing, none of the guns being dismounted by it, and few of them struck.
The fire, however, destroyed all the gun carriages and splinter-proof
shelters on the gorge.
After the cessation of fire, about six hundred shot-marks on the face
of the scarp wall were counted, but they were so scattered that no
breached effect could have been expected from such fire, and probably
none was attempted except at the right gorge angle. The only effect
of the direct fire during the two days was to disable three barbette
guns, knock off large portions of the chimneys and brick walls project-
ing above the parapet, and to set the quarters on fire with hot shot.
The vertical fire produced more effect, as it prevented the working of
the upper tier of guns, which were the only really effective guns in the
fort, being columbiads, 8-inch sea-coast howitzers, and 42-pounders
principally, and also prevented the use of the columbiads arranged in
the parade to be used as mortars against Cummings Point. The shells
that struck the stair towers nearly destroyed them, and filled the stair-
ways with so much rubbish as to render them almost impassable.
This, with the destruction of the stairs at the gorge by the explosion of
the magazine of shells by the fire, made it almost impossible to get to
the terre-plein.
The burning of the quarters and barracks produced a great effect on
the defense while the fire lasted, inasmuch as the heat and smoke were
almost stifling, and as the fire burned all around the magazines, obliging
them to be closed, and thns preventing our getting powder to continue
the firing. It also destroyed the main gates, aiid the gun earri~ges on
the parapet of the gorge. But we could have resumed the firing as soon
as the walls cooled sufficiently to open the magazines, and then, having
blown down the wall left projecting above the parapet, so as to get ri
Page 25
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN ChARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 25
of flying bricks, and built up the main gates with stones and rubbish,
the fort would actually have been in a more defensible condition than
when the action commenced. In fact, it would have been better if the
chimneys, roofs, and upper walls of the quarters and barracks had been
removed before the firing begun, but the short notice and the small
force did not permit anything of this kind to be done after the notice of
the attack was received.
The weakness of the defense principally lay in the lack of cartridge
bags, and of the materials to make them, by which the fire of our
batteries was, all the time, rendered slow, and towards the last was
nearly suspended. The lack of a sufficient number of men to man the
barbette tier of guns at the risk of losing several by the heavy vertical
fire of the enemy also prevented us making use of the only guns that
had the power to smash his iron-clad batteries, or of throwing shells
into his open batteries, so as to destroy bins cannoneers.
The want of provisions would soon have caused the surrender of the
fort, but with plenty of cartridges the men would have cheerfully
fought five or six days, and if necessary much longer, on pork alone, of
which we had a sufficient supply.
I do not think that a breach could have been effected in the gorge
at the distance of the battery on Cummings Point, within a week or
ten days; and even then, with the small garrison to defend it, and
means for obstructing it, at our disposal, the operation of assaulting it,
with even vastly superior numbers, would have been very doubtful in
its results.
liespectfully submitted.
J. 0-. FOSTETI,
Captain, Engineers.
No. 8.
Reports of Brig. Gen. G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, of operations aga~ns1
Fort Sumter.
HEADQUARTERS C. S. ARMY,
Charleston, S. C., March 6, 1861.
SIR: In obedience to War Department orders of the 1st instant I
arrived at this place on the 3d instant, and immediately reported to
Governor Pickens for military duty. That day we inspected the float-
ing battery now being constructed here. On the 4th instant we in-
spected the works on the southern portion of the harbor (Morris Island
and Fort Johnson), and yesterday those on the north (Fort Moultrie,
& c., including Castle Piuckney).
I have now the honor to state that I coincide fully in the opinion and
views contained in Maj. W. II. C. Whitings letter preceding his full
report, and that, as I have not time to write more fully on the subject,
II desire that portion of his letter referring to the above works should
be annexed to this report, and a copy thereof sent to me for my files.
On Morris Island the flanking defects are being remedied, and will
probably soon be completed, as well as the position, & c., of said works
will permit. I have ordered that only six mortars, instead of twelve,
intended for that point, shonld be put in position there. I have ordered
the construction of a series of small batteries of heavy guns, two in each,
and twenty in all, well protected by traverses along the channel shore
of that island, said batteries to be about fifty or one hundred yard
Page 26
26 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
apart (according to the nature of the ground), to prevent the broad-
sides of a vessel, from silencing them in a few minutes. When those
batteries shall be ready, I will remove into them all the heavy guns 1
can dispose of. I have ordered to that island the whole of Colonel
Greggs regiment, with two short 12-pounders and one light battery, for
the protection of said works, selecting a strong natural position to pro-
tect their right flank from a Land attack.
I have ordered an additional battery (for two mortars) to be con-
structed near Fort Johnson, to receive half of those intended for a de-
fectively-placed mortar battery, to the south of said work, the latter not
being in itself of much importance, containing only an open battery of
four 24-pounders bearing on the inner harbor. At Fort Moultrie,
towards the north of Fort Sumter, I have ordered additional traverses
to be thrown up, of a better construction than those already there, for
the protection of the channel guns against enfilade from Fort Sumter.
Between Moultrie and the western extremity of Sullivans Island I have
ordered the constructiou of a four-gun concealed Wttery, to enfilade the
chaiinel face of Sumter, having nine or ten guns (e~ barbette) bearing
on the Morris Island works. I have ordered two more 32-pounders to
be added to the extreme five-gun battery, commanding the Maffitt or
northern shore channel into the harbor, and I have selected the site of
two more mortar batteries, of two each, to take in reverse the casemato
and barbette guns of Fort Sumter bearing on Morris Island.
I have fortunately found that we would soon have mortars enough for
all our present wants ; but, generally, the carriages and chassis of nearly
all the guns, especially those on the Morris island works, are either
defective or not of the proper kind. I am going to remedy this defect
as soon as practicable.
I find that the gorge of Fort Sumter is ioo much inclined to the guns
on Morris Island to be breached by them at this distance (thirteen hun-
dred yards); and, moreover, they have double the number of guns bear-
ing on them, reversing thereby the advantages of the attack over the
defense. If we succeed in constructing my enfilading battery on Sulli-
vans Island we will then liave a preponderating fire against said gorge
wall (four feet six inches thick); but, as already stated, at about thirteen
hundred yards, and at an angle of about fifty degrees.
I find that the battery of heavy guns (10-inch columbiads), which I
proposed putting up in the vicinity of Fort Johnson, would be impracti-
cable (if we had said guns), the grounds being too low and marshy.
I have now given you a general view of the condition of the offensive
works of this harbor, and I am of the opinion that, if Sumter was prop-
erly garrisoned and armed, it would be a perfect Gibraltar to anything
but constant shelling, night and day, from the four points of the com-
pass. As it is, the weakness of the garrison constitutes our greatest
advantage, and we must, for the present, turn our attention to prevent-
ing it from being re-enforced. This idea I am gradually nd cautiously
infusing into the minds of all here; but,should we have to open our
batteries upon it, I hope to be able to do so with all the advantages the
condition of things here will permit. All that I ask is tune for complet-
ing my batteries and preparing and organizing properly my command,
which is still in a more or less confused state, not having yet m~i gen-
eral staff officers around me. So soon as I shall have here a competent
engineer officer (Major Whiting arrived here on the 4th, and will proba-
bly leave again for Savannah to day, where his presence is required), I
will send to the department a plan of this harbor, with the position, & c.
Page 27
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 27
of all the works marked thereon. Those iDrummond lights, ordered
from New York, will be here in about ten days.
I remain, sir, very respectfully,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
General L. P. WALKER,
& eretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.
[Inclosure.]
CHARLESTON, S. C., ]lliareh 6, 1861.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I proceeded to Morris
Island this morning, and commenced establishing battery positions.
I. Directed the Dahlgren battery to be modified. Retired the inte-
rior crest of the right gun, so as to obtain a raking fire on the whole
approach, and on the beach, and placed a traverse between the two,
and directed the rear of the battery to be excavated, to give a relief of
at least eight to interior crest. It is absolutely necessary that these
guns be placed en barbette; otherwise, unless the epaulement is cut
down to two, they cannot be depressed sufficiently for the short ranges
on the ships carriages.
II. Battery A, for two 8-inch columbiads (new position). The rela-
tive positions of the different batteries will be indicated on the chart
by the engineer and submitted to you to-morrow.
Ill. Arranged and modified the Star of the West battery, giving greater
relief, reducing the platform, locating necessary traverses, and adding
one 24-ponnder. Directed the txvo field pieces br line and land defense.
IV. Battery B, for two guns, one 8-inch coluinbiad, and one 8-inch
sea-coast.
V. Battery C, for one 8-inch sea-coast and one 42-pounder.
VI. Battery D, for two 24-pounders.
VII. Battery E, two 24-pounders, at nearly right angles to the brush.
To protect the two last from Hunter, the left traverse must cross the
epaulement.
VIII. Battery F, partially fi~iished, for two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers
and two 24-pounders. The howitzers are on casemate carriages, and
must be changed.
The arrangement of these batteries will, in general, be identical, except
when the siege carriage is used in the Star of the West battery, and in
E, and G, the latter of three 24-pounders, partly done. Therefore the
guns can be placed in different order, if thought best. I placed the
gnus of longest range fhrthest from Hunter, as having greater effect
upon the distant approach. Examination of the maps, when complete,
will show the field of fire. Of these guns there are now on the island
three 8-inch columbiads, now mounted on casemate carriages in battery;
No. 2 as a siege battery on Sumter; two 42-pounders, mounted on case-
mate carriages, siege battery on Sumter. the two Dahlgrens and the
two 8-inch sea-coast, on the casement trenches. All the above require
barbette carriages. Of these, the barbette carriages for the colunibiads
are nearly ready; also, for the sea coast. There are also eight 24-
pounders on siege carriages already mounted on the channel; in all, fif-
teen. There are required for the proposed addition two sea-coast how-
itzers, now at Piuckney, and five 24-pounders also at Piuckney; mak-
ing, in all, twenty-t -o guns to be provided. The at~rangement is that
indicated in the plan this morning. I am doubtful which battery to
commence first. Perhaps in order from the Dahlgren, although it would
be best to have them done simultaneously. there is want 01 labor, an
Page 28
28 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. ~CHAP. I.
great want of proper quartermaster and commissary arrangements for
the labor. All the work on the siege batteries should be suspended,
aud turned to proper account on the channel.
Please to direct the enlarged chart, made by Lieutenant Gregorie,
South Carolina Engineers, for the governor, to be sent down to have
the positions of the batteries located upon it, for your information.
W. II. C. WHITING,
General BEAUREGARD,
Charleston Hotel. iiiajor, Engineers.
HEADQUARTERSt PROVISIONAL ARMY, C. S. A.,
Charleston, S. C., April 17, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to transmit by Col. IR. A. Pryor, one of my aides
(who like the others was quite indefatigable and fearless in conveying
my orders, in an open boat, from these headquarters to the batteries
during the bombardment), a general report of the attack of the 12th
instant on Fort Sumter. This report would have been sent sooner if
my other pressing duties had permitted inc to devote my time to it, while
the presence of the enemys geet still led us to expect an attack along
the coast at any moment. A more detailed account will be sent forward
as soon as the returns of the commanders of batteries shall have reached
this office. The great difficulty I will labor under will be to do fulljustice
to all when so much zeal, energy, and gallantry were displayed by officers
and soldiers in the execution of my orders. I wish, how ever, to record
two incidents, which will illustrate the feelings that animated all here.
Whilst the barracks in Fort Sumter were in a blaze, and the interior
of the work appeared untenable from the heat and from the fire of our
batteries (at about which period I sent three of my aides to offhr assist-
ance in the name of the Confederate States), whenever the guns of Fort
Sumter would fire upon Fort Moultrie the men occupying Cummings
Point batteries (Palnietto Guard, Captain Cuthbert) at each shot would
cheer Anderson for his gallantry, although themselves still firing upon
him, aud when on the 15th instant he left the harbor on the steamer
Isabel the soldiers of the batteries on Cummings Point lined the beach,
silent, and with heads uncovered, while Anderson and his command
passed before them, and expressions of scorn at the al)parent cowardice
of the fleet in not even attempting to rescue so gallant an officer and his
command were upon the lips of all. With such material for an army, if
properly disciplined, I would consider mys~lf almost invincible against
any forces not too greatly superior.
The fire of those barracks was only put out on the 15th instant, p. in.,
after great exertions by the gallant fire companies of this city, who were
at their pumps night and day, although aware that close by them was a
magazine filled with thirty thousand pounds of powder, with a shot-hole
through the wall of its anteroom.
I am now removing the tottering walls of the buildings within, and
clearing away all the rubbish, & c., from the interior of the work, so as
to render it still more formidable than it was before it was attacked.
In one or two days I will send forward to you photographs taken at
different points of sight, from which you can clearly understand the con-
dition of the fort within when first occupied by us.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Hon. L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala
Page 29
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 29
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY, 0. S. A.,
Charleston, S. 0., April 16, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following summary statement
of the circumstances of the surrender of Fort Sumter:
On the refusal of Major Anderson to engage, in compliance with my
demand, to designate the time when he would evacuate Fort Sumter,
and to agree meanwhile not to use his guns against us, at 3.20 oclock
in the morning of the 12th instant I gave him formal notice that within
one hour my batteries would open on him. In consequence of some
circumstance of delay the bombardment was not begun precisely at the
appointed moment, but at 4.30 oclock the signal gun was fired, and
within twenty minutes all our batteries were in full play. There was
no response from Fort Sumter until about 7 oclock, when the first
shot from the enemy was discharged against our batteries on Cum-
mings Point.
By 8 oclock the action became general, and throughout the day was
maintained with spirit on both sides. Our guns were served with skill
and energy. The effect was visible in the impressions made on the
walls of Fort Sumter. From our mortar batteries shells were thrown
with such precision and rapidity that it soon became impossible for the
enemy to employ his guns en barbette, of which several were dismounted.
The engagement was continued without any circumstance of special
note until nightfall, before which time the fire from Sumter had evi-
dently slackened. Operations on our side were sustained throughout
the night, provoking, however) only a feeble response.
On the morning of the 13th the action was prosecuted with renewed
vigor, and about 7~ oclock it was discovered our shells had set fire to
the barracks in the fort. Speedily volumes of smoke indicated an
extensive conflagration, and apprehending some terrible calamity to
the garrison I immediately dispatched an offer of assistance to Major
Anderson, which, however, with grateful acknowledgments, he declined.
Meanwhile, being informed about 2 oclock that a white flag was dis-
played from Sumter, I dispatched two of my aides to Major Anderson
with terms of evacuation. In recognition of the gallantry exhibited
by the garrison I cheerfully agreed that on surrendering the fort the
commanding officer might salute his flag.
By 8 oclock the terms of evacuation were definitely accepted. Major
Anderson having expressed a desire to communicate with the United
States vessels lying off the harbor, with a view to arrange for the
transportation of his command to some port in the United States, one
of his officers, accompanied by Captain llartstene and three of my
aides, was permitted to visit the officer in command of the squadron to
make provision for that object. Because of an unavoidable delay the
formal transfer of the fort to our possession did not take place until 4
oclock in the afternoon of the 14th instant. At that hour, the place
having been evacuated by the United States garrison, our troops occu-
pied it, and the Confederate flag was hoisted on the ramparts of Sum-
ter with a salute from the various batteries.
The steamer Isabel having been placed at the service of Major Ander-
son, he and his command were transferred to the United States vessels
off the harbor.
The urgency of immediate engagements prevents me from giving at
present a more circumstantial narrative of the incidents connected with
the capture of Fort Sumter. When the reports from the various com-
manders of batteries are received I will hasten to forward you a more
detailed account
Page 30
30 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON hARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
In conclusion, I am happy to state that the troops, both officers and
soldiers, of the Regulars, Volunteers, Militia, and Navy, by their energy,
zeal, perseverance, labor, and endurance before the attack, and by their
courage and gallantry during its continuance, exhibited all the charac-
teristics of the best troops; and to my staff, Regular and Volunteer, I
am much indebted for the prompt and complete execution of my orders,
which had to be communicated in open boats during the bombardment
to the different batteries then engaged.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
0-. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Hon. L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.
HEADQUARTERS PRovIsIoNAL ARMY, C. S.,
Charleston, S. C., April 27, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to transmit to the Department with this my
detailed report of the operations conducted during the bombardment of
Fort Sumter, accompanied by copies of the reports sent in to this office
by the commandants of batteries, together with a series of photographs
(twenty-two in number), showing the condition of Forts Sumter and
Moultrie and of the floating battery after the surrender of the former
fort. *
I have the honor~ to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
0-. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Hon. L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of IVar, Montgomery, Ala.
HEADQUARTERS PROVICIONAL ARMY,
Charleston, S. C., April 27, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to submit the following detailed report of the
bombardment and surrender of Fort Sumter and the incidents connected
therewith:
Having completed my channel defenses and batteries in the harbor
necessary for the reduction of Fort Sumter, I dispatched two of my aides
at 2.20 p. m.~ on Thursday, the 11th of April, with a communication to
Major Anderson, in command of the fortification, demanding its evac-
uation. I offered to transl)ort himself and command to any port in the
United States he might elect, to allow him to move out of the fort with
company arms and property and all private property, and to salute his
flag in lowering it. He refused to accede to the demand. As my aides
were about leaving Major Anderson remarked that if we did not batter
him to pieces he would be starved out in a few days, or words to that
effect. This being reported to me by my aides on their return with his
refusal, at 5.10 p. in., I deemed it proper to telegraph the purport of his
remark to the Secretary of War. In reply I received by telegraph the
following instructions at 9.10 p. in.: Do not desire needlessly to bom-
bard Fort Sumter. If Major Anderson will state the time at which, as
indicated by him, he will evacuate, and agree that in the mean time he
will not use his guns against us unless ours should be employed against
Fort Sumter, you are authorized thus to avoid effusion of blood. If this,
or its equivalent, be refused, reduce the fort as your judgment decides
to be most practicable.~~
* The photographs not found
Page 31
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 31
At 11 p. m. I sent my aides with a communication to Major Anderson
based on the foregoing instructions. * It was placed in his hands at 12.45
a. m. 12th instant. He expressed his willingness to evacuate the fort
on Monday at noon if provided with the necessary means of transporta-
tion, and if he should not receive contradictory instructions from his
Government or additional supplies, but he declined to agree not to open
his gnns upon us in the event of any hostile demonstrations on our part
against his flag. This reply, which was opened and shown to my aides,
plainly indicated that if instructions should be received contrary to his
purpose to evacuate, or if he should receive his supplies, or if the Con-
federate troops should fire on hostile troops of the United States, or
upon transports bearing the United States flag, containing men, mum-
tions, and supplies designed for hostile operations against ns, he would
still feel himself bound to fire upon us, and to hold possession of the fort.
As, in consequence of a communication from the President of the
United States to the governor of South Carolina, we were in moment-
ary expectation of an attempt to re-enforce Fort Sumter, or of a descent
upon our coast to that end from the United States fleet then lying at
the entrance of the harbor, it was manifestly an imperative necessity
to reduce the fort as speedily as possible, and not to wait until the
ships and the fort should unite in a combined attack upon us. Accord-
ingly my aides, carrying out my instructions, promptly refused to accede
to the terms proposed by 1 ajor Anderson, and notified him in writing
that our batteries would open upon Fort Sumter in one hour. This
notification was given at 3.20 a. m. of Friday, the 12th instant. The
signal shell was fired from Fort Johnson at 4.30 a. m. At about 5
oclock the fire from our batteries became general. Fort Sumt~r did
not open fire until 7 oclock, when it commenced with a vigorous fire
upon the Cummings Point iron battery. The enemy next directed his
fire upon the enfilade battery on Sullivans Island, constructed to sweep
the parapet of Fort Sumter, to prevent the working of the barbette guns
and to dismount them. This was also the aim of the floating battery,
the Dahlgren battery, and the gun batteries at Cummings Point.
The enemy next opened on Fort Moultrie, between which and Fort
Sumter a steady and almost constant fire was kept up throughout the
day. These three pointsFort Moultrie Cu
end of Sullivans Island, where the inmings Point, and the
floating battery, Dahlgren battery,
and the enfilade battery were placedwere the points to which the
enemy seemed almost to confine his attention, although he fired a num-
ber of shots at Captain Butlers mortar battery, situated to the east of
Fort Monltrie, and a few at Captain James mortar batteries at Fort
Johnson.
During the day (12th instant) the fire of my batteries was kept up
most spiritedly, the guns and mortars being worked in the coolest man-
ncr, preserving the prescribed intervals of firing. Towards evening it
became evident that our fire was very effective, as the enemy was driven
from his barbette gun which he attempted to work in the morning,
and his fire was confined to his casemated guns, but in a less active
manner than in the morning, and it was observed that several of his
guns en barbette were disabled. During the whole of Friday night our
mort( r batteries continued to throw shells, but, in obedience to orders,
at longer intervals. The night was rainy and dark, and as it was almost
confidently expected that the United States fleet would attempt to
land troops upon the islands or to throw men into Fort Sumter by
* For the correspondence with Major Anderson above referred to see inclosures to
report No. 6, pp. 1315
Page 32
32 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
means of boats, the greatest vigilance was observed at all our channel
batteries, and by our troops on both Morris and Sullivans Islauds.
Early on Saturday morning all of our batteries reopened npon Fort
Sumter, which responded vigorously for a time, directing its fire specially
against Fort Moultrie. About 8 oclock a. in. smoke was seen issuing
from the quarters of Fort Sumter. Upou this the fire of our batteries
was increased, as a matter of course, for the pnrpose of bringing the
enemy to terms as speedily as possibly, inasmuch as his flag was still
floating defiantly above him. Fort Sumter continued to fire from time
to time, but at long and irregular intervals, amid the dense smoke, flying
shot, and bursting shells. Our brave troops, carried away by their nat-
ural generous impulses, mounted the different batteries, and at every
discharge from the fort cheered the garrisou for its pluck and gallantry,
and hooted the fleet lying inactive just outside the bar.
About 1.30 p. in., it being reported to me that the flag was down (it
afterwards appeared that the flag-staff had been shot away), and the
confiagation from the large volume of smoke being apparently on the
increase, I sent three of my aides with a message to Major Anderson to
the effect that seeing his flag no longer flying, his quarters in flames and
supposing him to be in distress, I desired to offer him any assistance he.
might stand in need of. Before my aides reached the fort the United
States flag was displayed on the parapet, but remained there only a short
time, when it was hauled down and a white flag substituted in its place.
When the United States flag first disappeared the firing from ourbat-
teries almost entirely ceased, but reopened with increased vigor when it
reappeared on the parapet, and was continued nntil the white flag was
raised, when it ceased entirely. Upon the arrival of my aides at Fort
Sumter they delivered their message to Major Anderson, who replied
that he thanked me for my offer, but desired no assistance.
Just previous to their arrival Colonel Wigfall, one of my aides, who had
been detached for special (luty on Morris Island, had, by order of Brig-
adier-General Simons, crossed over to Fort Sumter from Cummings Point
in an open boat, with private Gourdin Young, amidst a heavy fire of shot
and shell, for the purpose of ascertaining from Major Anderson whether
his intention was to surrender, his flag being down and his quarters in
flames. On reaching the fort the colommel had an interview with Major
Anderson, the result of which was that M~jor Anderson understood him
as offering the same conditions on the part of General Beauregard as
had been tendered him on the 11th instant, while Colonel Wigfalls im-
pression was that Major Anderson unconditionally surrendered, trusting
to the generosity of General Beauregard to offer such terms as would
be honorable and acceptable to both parties. Meanwhile, before these
circumstances were reported to me, and in fact soon after the aides whomn
I had dispatched with the offer of assistance had set out on their mis-
sion, hearing that a white flag was flying over the fort, I sent Major
Jones, the chief of my staff, and sonme other aides, with substantially the
same propositions I had submitted to Major Anderson on the 11th instant,
with the exception of the privilege of saluting his flag. The Major
(Anderson) replied, it would be exceedingly gratifying to him, as well
as to his command, to be permitted to salute their flag, having so gal-
lantly defended the fort under such trying circumstances, and hoped
that General Beauregard would not refuse it, as such a privilege was not
unusual. He further said he would not urge the point, but would pre-
fer to refer the matter again to me. The point was, therefore, left open
until the matter was snbmitted to me.
Previous to the return of Major Jones I sent a fire engine, under Mr
Page 33
CIIAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 33
M. II. Nathan, chief of the fire department, and Surgeon-General Gibbes,
of South Carolina, with several of my aides, to offer further assistance to
the garrison at Fort Sumter, which was 4eclined. I very cheerfully
agreed to allow the salute, as an honorable testimony to the gallantry
and fortitude with which Major Anderson and his command had
defended their post and I informed Major Anderson of my decision
about 7~ oclock, through Major Jones, my chief of staff.
The arrangements being completed Major Anderson embarked with
his command on the transport prepared to convey him to the United
States fleet lying outside the bar, and our troops immediately garrisoned
the fort, and before sunset the flag of the Confederate States floated
over the ramparts of Fort Sumter.
I commend in the highest terms the gallantry of every one nuder umy
command, and it is with diffidence that I will mention any corps or
names for fear of doing injustice to those not mentioned, for where all
have done their duty well it is difficult to discriminate. Although the
troops out of the batteries bearing on Fort Sumter were not so fortunate
as their comrades working the gnus and mortars, still their services
were equally as valuable and as commendable, for they were on their
arms at the channel batteries, and at their posts and btvouacs, and ex-
posed to severe weather, and constant watchfulness, expecting every
moment and~ready to repel re-enforcemeuts from the powerful fleet off
the bar, and~to all the troops under my command I award much praise
for their gallantry, and the cheerfulness with which they met the duties
required of them. I feel much indebted to Generals IR. G. M. Dunovant
and James Simons and their staffs, especially Majors Evans and IDe
Saussure, South Carolina Army, commanding on Sullivans and Morris
Islands, for their valuable and ~ailant services, and the discretion they
displayed in executin~ the duties devolving on their responsible positions.
Of Licut. Col. It. S. Ripley, First Artillery Battalion, commandant of
batteries on Sullivans Island, I cannot speak too highly, and join with
General Dunovant, his immediate commander since January last, in
conimending in the highest terms his sagacity, experience, and unflag-
ging zeal. I would also mention in the highest terms of praise Captains
Calhoun and llallonqhist, assistant commandants of batteries to Colonel
Ripley; and the following commanders of batteries on Sullivans Island:
Capt. J. It. Hamilton, commandi~ng the floating battery and Dahlgren
gun; Captains Butler, South Carolina Army, and Bruns, aide-dc-camp to
General Dunovant, and Lieutenants Wagner, Ithett, Yates, Valentine,
and Parker.
To Lieut. Col. W. G. IDe Saussure, Second Artillery Battalion, com-
mandant of batteries on Morris I sland, P.o much praise cannot be given.
He displayed the most untiring energy, and his judicious arrangements
and the good management of his batteries contributed much to the
reduction of Fort Sumter. To Major Stevens, of the Citadel Academy,
in charge of the Cummings Point batteries, I feel much indebted for his
valuable and scientific assistance, and the efficient working of the bat-
teries under his immediate charge. The Cummings Point batteries
(iron42 pounder and mortar) were manned by the Palmetto Guards,
Captain Cuthbert, and I take pleasure in expressing my admiration of
the service of the gallant captain and his distinguished company during
the action.
I would also mention in terms of praise the following commanders of
batteries at the point, viz: Lieutenants Armstrong, of the Citadel Acad-
emy and Browufleld, of the Palmetto Guards; also Captain Thomas, of
the Citadel Academy, who had charge of the rifled cannon, and had th
Page 34
34 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
honor of using this valuable weapona gift of one of South Carolinas
distant sons to his native Statewith peculiar effect. Capt. J. 0-. King,
with his company, the Marion Artillery, commanded the mortar battery
in rear of the Cummings Point batteries, and the accuracy of his shell-
practice was the theme of general admiration. Capt. George S. James,
commanding at Fort Johnson, had the honor of firing the first shell at
Fort Sumter, and his conduct and that of those under him was coni-
mendable during the action. Captain Martin, South Carolina Army,
commanded the Moi4int Pleasant mortar battery, and with his assistants
did good service. For a more detailed account of the gallantry of offi-
cers and men, and of the varions incidents of the attack on Fort Sumter,
I would respectfully invite your attention to the copies of the reports
of the different officers under my command, herewith inclosed.
I cannot close my report without reference to the following gentle-
men: To his excellency Governor Pickens and staff, especially Colonels
Lamar and Dearing, who were so active and efficient in the construction
of the channel batteries; Colonels Lucas and Moore for assistance on
various occasions, and Colonel Duryea and Mr. Kathan (chief of the
fire department) for their gallant assistance in putting out the fire at
Fort Sumter wb~en the magazine of the latter was in imminent danger
of explosion; General Jamison, Secretary of War, and General S. R.
Gist, adjutant-general, for their valnable assistance in obtaining and
dispatching the troops for the attack on Fort Sumter and defense of
the batteries; Quartermasters and Commissary Departments, Colonel
Hatch and Colonel Walker, and the ordnance board, especially Colonel
Manigault, Chief of Ordnance, whose zeal and activity were untiring:
The Medical Department, whose preparations had been judiciously and
amply made, but which a kind Providence rendered unnecessary; the
Engineers, Majors Whiting and Gwynn, Captains Trapier and Lee, and
Lieutenants McCrady, Earle, and Gregorie, on whoiu too much praise
cannot be bestowed for their untiring zeal, energy, and gallantry, and
to whose labors is greatly due the unprecedented example of taking such
an important work after thirty-three hours firing without having to
report the loss of a single life, and but four slightly wounded. From
Major W. H. C. Whiting I derived also much assistance, not only as
an engineer, in selecting the sites and laying out the channel batteries
on Morris Island, but as acting assistant adjutant and inspector general
in arranging and stationing the troops on said island. To the naval
department, especially Captain Hartstene, one of my volunteer aides,
who was perfectly indefatigable in guarding the entrance into the har-
bor, and in transmitting my orders; Lieut. T. B. Huger, who was also
of much service, first as inspecting ordnance officer of batteries, then in
charge of the batteries on the south end of Morris Island; Lieutenant
Warley, who commanded the Dahlgren channel battery; also the school-
ship, which was kindly offered by the board of directors, and was of
mmdi service; Lieutenant P~utledge, who was acting inspector-general
of ordnance of all the batteries, in which capacity, assisted by Lieu-
tenant Williams, C. S. A., on Morris Island, he was of much service in
organizing and distributing the ammunition; Captains Childs and
Jones, assistant commandant of batteries; to Lieatenant-Colonel De
Saussure, Captains Winder and Allston, acting assistant adjutant and
inspector general to General Simons brigade; Captain Manigault, of
my staff, attached on General Simons staff who did efficient and gallant
services on Niorris Island during the fight; Prof. Lewis H. Gibbes, of
Charleston College, and his aides, for their Valuable services in operating
~the Drummond lights established at the extensions of Sullivans an
Page 35
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 35
Morris Islands. The venerable and gallant Edmund Ruffin, of Virginia,
wa~ at the Iron battery, and fired many guns, undergoing every fatigue
and sharing the hardships at the battery with the youngest of the Pal-
mettoes. To my regular staff; Major Jones, C. S. A.; Captains Lee and
Ferguson, South Carolina Army, and Lieutenant Legar6, South Carolina
Army, and volunteer staff; Messrs. Chisolm, Wigfall, Chesnut, Manning,
Miles, Gonzales, and Pryor, I am much indebted for their indefatigable
and valuable assistance night and day during the attack on Fort Sumter,
transmitting in open boats my orders when called upon with alacrity
and cheerfulness to the different batteries amidst falling balls and burst-
ing shells, Captain Wigfall being the first in Sumter to receive the
surrender.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brig. Gen. COOPER,
Adjutant-General, C. S. A.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY, C. S.,
Charleston, AS1. C., May 1, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to send you by the bearer, Capt. S. W. Fer-
guson, South Carolina Regulars, my regular aide, and Lieut. Col. A. R.
Chisolm (aide to Governor Pickens), one of my volunteer aides, the flag
which waved on Fort Moultrie during the bombardment of Fort Sumter,
and was thrice cut by the enemys balls. Being the first Confederate
flag thus baptized, I have thought it worth sending to the War Depart-
ment for preservation. I should have brought it on myself, but my
present indisposition will prevent me from leaving here for a day or
two.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Hon. L. ~. WA~R, Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Secretary of War.
No. 9.
Report of Brig. Gen. B. G. 11!. Dunovant, South Carolina Army, of oper
ations against Port Sumter.
HEADQUARTERS, SOUTH CAROLINA ARMY
Sullivans Island, April21, 1861.
MAJOR: I have the honor to report that on Tuesday morning, April
9, in obedience to orders from your headquarters, I came down to Sul-
livans Jsland attended by the following members of my staff: Maj. N.
G. Evans, S. C. A., adjutant-general; First Lient. Warren Adams,
S. C. A., and Second Lient. Robert Pringle, S. C. A., aides-de-camp;
II\Iaj. W. D. De Saussure and Capt. J. D. Bruns, special aides-de-camp.
information having been received which led us to expect a deter-
mined effort on the part of jhe United States Government to re-enforce
Fort Sumter, I at once made all the necessary preparations to prevent,
if possible, the success of this attempt. The batteries in process of
erection at the eastern extremity of the island were rapidly pushed to
completion. Colonel Pettigrew had already taken precautions agains
Page 36
36
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
a surprise by establishing a picket guard on Long Island and by
doubling the sentries on Sullivans Island.
On the morning of the 11th I reviewed the entire forces nuder my
command, Colonel Pettigrews regiment of rifles occupying and defend-
ing the eastern third of the island with the assistance of the Charleston
Light Dragoons, and the Germ an Flying Artillery in charge of a field
battery attached to his command, and Colonel Andersons regiment of
the First Infantry being held in readiness to act as a reserve or to be
thrown on any point where their services were required.
It affords me sincere gratification to record that, although happily
Colonel Pettigrews regiment was not called into action, and had little
share in the perils and honors of the recent engagement, their patient
endurance of every privation, and their prompt and cheerful response
to every call of duty during a long-continued service, entitle them to
unqualified commendation. I may add that as soon as they heard the
sound of our guns, twenty-four members of the regiment of rifles went
down under fire to the fioatino
being sunk. battery, their boat narrowly escaping
Colonel Andersons regiment of regulars also deserve special notice
for the good order, spirit, and energy which have universally character-
ized the command. Three companies of his regiment, Captain Martins,
Captain Butlers, and Lieutenant Valentines, were detached for duty
as artillerists under Lieutenant-Colonel Ripley, and for their share in
the bombardment I would respectfully refer you to the report of the
lieutenant-colonel commanding the batteries.
The defenses of Fort Moultrie and the preparation of the gun and
mortar batteries above and below this post seemed to me to be complete
and satisfactory. For this no small measure of praise is due to the
sagacity, experience, and unflagging zeal of Lieut. Col. B. S. Ripley,
commanding First Battalion Artillery, who was assigned to duty under
my command on the 2d day of January last, when Fort Moultrie was
generally considered untenable. The suggestions made by this officer
in his reports respecting the defenses of the fort have in almost every
instance been carried out, and their value has been triumphantly illus-
trated by the severe test to which they were subjected in the recent en-
gagement. The gnus which were used against Fort Sumter were the
same which Major Anderson spiked and burned when he abandoned
Fort Moultrie.
On the night of the 11th, as hostilities were shortly expected to com-
mence, I made the following disposition of my staff: Major Pagan,
Lieutenant Adams, and Lieutenant Pringle to be stationed between
Fort Moultrie and Captain Butlers battery, to carry orders to and from
these posts and to the brigade of infantry; Major De Saussure to attend
me personally, and Captain Bruns to be on detached service at Captain
ilallonquists mortar battery, where he rendered efficient aid during the
whole bombardment. Major Evans, who had been confined to his bed
by sickness for some days, joined me soon after the battle commenced,
and then, as always, exhibited the highest qualifications for the duties
of his arduous and responsible post. I am gratified to record that my
entire staff acquitted themselves well, and their services to me during
the campaign have been invaluable. Although most of them had but
little military experience, they have spared no pains to acquaint them-
selves with the duties of their office, and have, without exception, per-
formed them intelligently, cheerfully, and with dispatch.
During the bombardment, I observed specially the behavior of the
troops at Fort Moultrie, and at Captains Butlers and ilallonquist
Page 37
ChAr. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 37
mortar batteries. At all these posts the energy and spirit displayed
alike by officers and men could not be surpassed, I believe, by any troops
in the world. The enfilade, Dahigren, and floating batteries had also a
prominent place in the picture, but II must again refer to the reports of
the officers commanding these batteries.
I am pleased to mention that Ex-Governor J. L. Manning, Hon. W.
P. Miles, and Capt. Samuel Fcrguson, S. C. A., aides-de-camp to Brig-
adier-General Beauregard, brought orders to me from the brigadier-gen-
eral commanding during the hottest of the fire. Major IDe San~sure, of
my staff, carried information for the Ordnance Department in regard to
the short supply of Dahlgren shells nnder a brisk fire.
As soon as the white flag was displayed from Fort Sumter on the
13th I sent Captain Hartstene, C. S. N., Captain Calhoun, S. C. A., and
Surgeon Lynch, C. S. N., to ascertain whether Major Anderson had sur-
rendered. These officers reported on their return that they had been
preceded by some members of your staff.
For the details of this action, which has terminated so happily for the
glory of our arms and for the honor and safety of South Carolina, I
would respectfully refer you to the report of Lieutenant-Colonel Ripley,
and to the reports of the officers nnder his immediate command.
R. G. M. DUNOYANT,
Brigadier- General, Commanding South Carolina Army.
Maj. B. ft JONES,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No. 10.
Report of Brig. Gen. Jam6s Simons of operations against Fort Sumter.
HEADQUARTERS, MORRIS ISLAND, April 23, 1861.
GENERAL: I have the honor respectfully to inform you that the
report of Lieutenant-Colonel Be Saussure, commanding the battalion
of artillery, with the reports of commanders of batteries at this post
of the late action of the 12th and ~13th instants with Fort Sumter, have
this moment been handed to me, and as you are already apprised of my
communication of yesterday to Assist. Adjt. Gen. P. It Jones, this will
furnish the reason for my delaying the present address. I have little
to add to the minute and circumstantial detail which has been so care-
fully and minutely furnished by these officers. I add my confirmation
to the commendation of the coolness, perseverance, anti steady zeal of
all those who were actively engaged in the action, to whom particular
as well as general reference has been made in those reports.
The firing commenced on the signal designated in your General Orders
No. 14, section 4, of date the 11th instant, and conformed substantially
to the requisitions of General Orders No. 9, of date the 6th instant, both
as regards the objects, and the times and the intervals of firing, and the
only departure from the rigid compliance with those orders was done by
my orders at 11.10 a. m. on the 13th instant, by which, through Colonel
Wigfall, whom you had sent to me as a special aid the night before the
engagement, I authorized battery commanders to increase the frequency
of their fire, but with express directions that the fire should not be so
frequent as to waste ammunition. This was continued until 1.30 p. in.,
when the flag of Fort Sumter fell, but whether by fire or by a ball from
our batteries did not then appear. It was certain the colors were no
Page 38
38 [CHAP. I.
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
hauled down. I beeaiae c~rfiin afterwards, on a visit to Fort Sumter,
that the flagstaff was shot away, for it bore the marks of many balls.
Only two shots were fired from our batteries on this island after the flag
fell. I suspended the firing, however, and on a consultation with Ex-
Governor Manning, Colonel Chesnut, .and Colonel Wigfall, members of
your staff, I sent Colonel Wigfall, accompanied by Private Gourdin
Young~ of Palmetto Guard, with a white tiag to Fort Sumter to inform
Major Anderson that I observed his fi- g was down, and to inquire whether
he would surrender to you. Colonel Wigfall, with great gallantry and
his accustomed indifference to danger, accompanied as I have mentioned.
proceeded in a boat in the midst of the continued fire from our batteries
other than at this island. Before he reached Fort Sumter I distinctly
saw the flag of Fort Sumter flying on the northeast corner of the fortress.
but very much masked by the gable of the quarters and the smoke and
flame. It was too late to recall Colonel Wigfall, and he accomplished
his mission. Soon after he reached the fortress a white flag was sub.
stituted for that lately put up, and the firing ceased on both sides. The
firing of Fort Sumter had continued after the flag had fallen.
At 2.15 p. m. Colonel Wigfall returned and announced that Major
Anderson surrendered unconditionally to Brigadier-General Beauregard,
of the C. S. Army. The announcement was received with the greatest
enthusiasm, and Colonel Wigfall and Private Young were borne from
the boat in triumph by the troops. Colonel Wigfall, accompanied by
Ex-Governor Manning, Colonel Chesnut, and Captain Chisolm of your
staff; then proceeded to report to you.
In the afternoon, before sundown, a boat from the fleet was brought
to by a shot from Lieutenant-Colonel Lamars battery, and landed
Lieutenant Marcy, U. S. Navy. He asked me if I would give him per-
mission to go to Fort Moultrie to inquire whether Major Anderson had
surrendered, and whether he and his command could be taken out of the
harbor by a vessel of the fleet, or a merchant vessel with them, or by
their boats. I replied that so far as it was necessary to go to Fort
Moultrie to learn whether Major Anderson had surrendered, I could,
and did, give him the information, and so far as the removal of Major
Andersons command out of the harbor was concerned, we could furnish
the requisite transportation, but that the commanding general of our
army was at hand, and that he would be communicated with, and that
Lieutenant Marcy could have the answer at 9 a. m. the next day, at
the same place. I sent Capt. Ben. Allston to you before dark with a
dispatch to this effect, under the signature of Major Whiting. Subse-
quent events were managed by yourself or under your direction and
eQutrol.
Besides the batteries actively engaged in the action, I cannot too
highly commend the other batteries on the channel. The untiring zeal,
watchfulness, and eagerness of the officers and men of the commands to
participate in the defense of their country must fill the hearts of their
fellow-citizens with the liveliest emotions of gratitude and pride.
I felt constraiped to refuse permission to Capt. A. J. Green, of Colum-
bia Artillery, and his gallant corps to open fire on Fort Sumter, although
he solicited permission to participate in the contest. Whilst the credit
of the battle will necessarily be more permanently associated with those
who managed the instruments of warfare, I cannot conclude this report
without inviting your attention to the infantry. In the midst of the
greatest exposure to the. most inclement weather, many hundreds biv-
ouacking in the open air without any covering, many more sheltered by
wide burrows in the sand hills, not a murmur of complaint escape
Page 39
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 39
during the thirty-three hours of the conflict; but with steady gaze on
the fleet, which was ranged outside the harbor, plainly visible to the
naked eye, they were ready to resist any hostile demonstration and
repulse the invader, whilst their brave comrades of the batteries were
engaged in driving the enemy from his strong fortress in our harbor.
Commendation from one like myself~ entitled from my education and
traiuing to no military consideration, is only valuable because it is
honest and sincere.
In this sense you will permit me, general, to thank you for the assist-
ants which your wisdom and kindness assigned to aid me in my difficult
and tryin~, position. I am almost unwilling to distinguish between
them, but the genius and the highest order of intellectual culture of
Major Whiting, joined to his indefatigable and untiring energy, sleep-
lessly exercised both night and day, have entitled him at my hands to
the most grateful eulogium.
Claiming no credit for myself, but only the desire to serve my country,
I will urgently pray you, general, to pardon in myself all deficiencies
which the newness of my situation and the suddenness of my assuming
this post may have caused inc to develop.
I have the honor to be, general, your obedient servant,
JAMES SIMONS,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Provisional Forces C. S., Okarleston.
No. 11.
Report of Lieut. Col. R. S. Ripley, South Carolina Army, commanding
Artillery.
HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY,
Sullivans Island, Port ililioultrie, April 16, 1861.
MAJOR: I klve the honor to report that on the evening of the 11th
instant, at 9~ oclock, the batteries under my command were supplied
and manned, the farnace heated, and all was ready for actiQn either
against a fleet or Fort Sumter. They were the following:
The live-gun battery, east of Curlew ground, under Captain Tupper,
of the Vigilant Rifles.
The Maffitt channel battery, two guns, and mortar-battery No. 2, two
10-inch mortars, under Captain Butler, of the Infantry.
Fort Moultrie, which was my headquarters, thirty guns, under Capt.
W. R. Calhoun, of the Artillery, assistant commandant of batteries;
First Lients. Thomas Wagner and Alfred Rhett, Artillery, commanding
Channel and Sumter batteries.
Mortar-battery No. 1, two 10-inch mortars.
The enfilade battery, four guns, under Capt. J. II. ilallonquist, Ar-
tillery, assistant commandant of batteries, and Lieutenants Flemming,
Artillery, and Valentine, Infantry.
The Point battery, one 9-inch IDahlgren gun, and the floating battery,
four guns, under Capt. J. R. Hamilton and First Lieutenant Yates, of
the Artillery, and the Mount I~leasant battery, two 10-inch mortars, under
Capt. Robert Martin, of the Infantry.
Of these three 8-inch columbiads, two 32-pounders, and six 24-pounders
in Fort Moultrie; two 24-pounders and two 32-pounders in the enfilad
Page 40
40 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
battery; one 9-inch Dahigren gun, two 32-pounders, two 42-pounders at
the Point and on board the floating battery, and the six 10-inch mortars
bore upon Fort Sumter.
A strict watch was kept all night, but no attempt to send re-enforce-
ments into Fort Sumter was observed. At ~ oclock on the morning
of the 12th a shell was seen from the batteries of Fort Johnson, and in
accordance with orders the signal for general action was made at once.
The commands went quickly and quietly to their posts, and very SOOII
every battery bearing upon the fort had commenced. As it was still
dark the firing was very slow, but after dawn the direct fire was quick-
ened, until every gun which bore npon Sumter was in quick operation,
and this was continued at the regular intervals presented throughout
the day. The enemy at first only replied to the Cummings Point bat-
teries, but in a short time opened a brisk fire on the Point and floating
batteries of this command with great precision. Shortly afterward he
commenced firing on the enfilade batteries, but did not open upon Fort
Moultrie.
At about 8 oclock I visited the batteries to the west of this fort, and
noticed the admirable conduct of the officers and men. Lieutenants
Blanding and Flemmiug, of the Artillery, at mortar battery Noh 1, and
Lieutenants Valentine and Burnet, of the Infantry, at the enfilade bat-
tery, were promptly and energetically performing their duties. Captain
ilallonquist was directing his fire to enfilade and drive the enemy from
his parapet. At the Point battery Capt. J. H. Hamilton was firing with
great precision and skill, and from his battery I noticed First Lieuten-
ants Yates and ilarleston on board the floating battery working their
guns with all the rapidity which the order of firing permitted. I next
visited Captain Butlers mortar battery, which he was working ener-
getically.
Fort Sumter opened upon Fort Moultrie about 8.30 oclock in the
morning, and from that time a steady and continuous fire was kept up
on us from his casemate 32-pounders and 42-pounders throughout the
day. This was replied to by the nine guns of the Sumter battery of this
fort, nuder Lieutenants IRhett and Mitchell, and two guns of the oblique
battery, under Lieutenant Parker, until 9 a. in., when Lieutenant lihetts
command was relieved by the detachment of Company A, under Lieu-
tenants Wagner, Preston, and Sitgreaves.
Captain Calhoun arranged the reliefs, and the officers and men of Com-
panies A, B, and D worked the Sumter battery of this fort alternately
until evening. During this time Captain Calhoun kept his channel guns
manned and ready for action against the fleet, which was confidently
expected to attempt an entrance. At different times during the after-
noon five hot shot were fired upon the quarters at Fort Sumter. I have
learned that they were thrice set on fire. Meantime the enemys shot
had told with great effect upon the quarters of Fort Moultrie, continually
perforating and breaking them up; but our defenses were strong, the
merlons and traverses heavy and well secured, and no material damage
was done to our defenses, although the principal fire of the enemy was
directed on this fort during the whole of the afternoon. The direct fire
ceased with the light, but the mortars kept up the bombardment at the
prescribed intervals.
The night set in dark and rainy, and it was feared that the enemy
would certainly attempt to re-enforce. All the batteries on the island
were visited, and especial vigilance enjoined. The channel batteries
were kept manned, the various enfilading guns were all in readiness to
sweep the faces and landings at Fort Sumter, and the mortar batterie
Page 41
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S.~ C. 4I~
to redouble their fire upou an alarm. The night passed away with one
alerte, during which the mortar practice was increased in rapidity for a
short time, and a few shots were fired from the different batteries; but
it becoming apparent that the alarm was groundless the vertical fire
was resumed, according to orders, and kept np until the day dawned.
Believing that it was impossilAe that the fleet outside would permit
the cannonade to proceed without an attempt to re-enforce during the
day, and the men of my command having been exposed to a pelting rain
during the night, and feeling confident that we had perfect command of
the enemys parapet, it had been determined to fire but two or three
guns from the Sumter battery of Fort Moultrie, and, while keeping up
a brisk mortar practice and fire from the enfilade battery, to save the
ammunition of the Point and floating batteries to repel an attempt to
re-enforce. Orders were given to such effect, and the two guns were
opened from the Sumter battery of this fort, the other batteries firing
in order. Fort Sumter opened early and spitefully, and paid especial
attention to Fort Moultriealmost every shot grazing the crest of the
parapet, and crashing through the quarters. Our defenses were still
uninjured and our losses trifling.
Finding that I could spare men and still keep the channel battery
manned, the fire was~ somewhat increased, until about 9 oclock on the
morning of the 13th smoke was seen to issue from the roof of the quar-
ters of Fort Sumter, and it was evident that a conflagration had com-
menced. The entire Sumter battery of Fort Moultrie was manned at
once, and worked with the utmost rapidity, officers and men vieing in
their energy. Captain Calhoun, First Lieutenants Wagner, Ithett, and
Preston, Second Lieutenants Sitgreaves, Mitchell, and Parker, of the
Artillery, and Mr. F. D. Blake, acting engineer, all superintended the
working of the guns, which were manned by detachments from Com-
pany B, relieved at times by detachments from Company A, with a skill,
and precision rarely excelled. Indeed, I doubt whether an artillery fire
at such a distance with ordinary guns has ever equaled it in precision.
The shot, both hot and cold, crashed in1 o the quarters of Fort Sumter
and along the parapet, rendering the extinction of the flames difficult,
and lighting up new places to windward. It became evident soon that
the enemy was worsted, but to insure the result orders were passed to
each of the batteries to redouble their fire.
Captain Hamilton, Captain ilallonquist, and Lieutenants Yates and
Valentine had anticipated the order, and Captain Butler soon increased
the rapidity of his mortar practice; nevertheless from his casemates the
enemy still poured shot thick and fast upon Fort Moultrie until about
12.45 p. in., when his flagstaff was cut away, and it slackened. The
thick and stifling smoke arising from the ruins of his buildings told
plainly that the time for surrender had nearly come. Nevertheless he
hoisted a new flag over the crest of his parapet, and our fire, which had
been ordered to cease when his flagstaff fell, was reopened with all the
vigor we could command. The smoke still poured out of the ruins, and
the fire from Fort Sumter having slackened again the order was again
given to cease, but upon his recommencing we reopened.
While the enemys flag was still flying and he was still firing upon
us, a boat was observed to leave Cummings Point and pull towards
Fort Sumter. By my order a shot was sent ahead of it, but it con-
tinned on and landed.
At 1.15 p. in., a white flag having been hoisted alongside the United
States ensign, the firing ceased. Brigadier-General Dunovant, who was
present in Fort Moultrie, immediately sent Captain llartstene, C. S. N.
Page 42
42 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAPJ.
Captain Calhoun, and Surgeon Lynch, C. S. N., to ascertain whether
the surren(ler was made, and to tender assistance. Upon their arrival
they found that the staff of the commanding general had just preceded
them.
It is hard to say whether any distinction can be made in the conduct
of the officers and men under my command. From the senior captain
to the prisoner turned out of the guard-house just before the action all
did their duty. The conduct of several came under my special notice,
and I mention them accordingly. Captains Calhoun and ilallonquist,
assistants to commandant of batteries; Capt. J. It. Hamilton, First Lieu-
tenants Wagner, Ithett, and Yates, and Second Lieutenant Flemming,
of the Artillery, and Captain Butler and Lieutenant Valentine, of the
Infantry, were all in command of batteries, and deserve especial men-
tion. In addition to the officers whose names appear in the report above
I take pleasure in mentioning the conduct of the engineer and assistants,
First Lieutenant Earle, and Messrs. F. ID. Blake and J. E. Nash, volun-
teers, acting.
No repairs being needed for the defenses, these gentlemen acted as
staff and lookout officers, and were very efficient. Lient. T. S. Fayssoux,
of the Cavalry, assistant commissary of subsistence, acted well in the
same capacity. Capt. C. F. Middleton, an old resident of Sullivans
Island, remained with his family auriug the cannonade, and was espe-
cially useful. All of these gentlemen were active and prompt in com-
municating orders and doing whatever duty devolved upon them.
Surg. Arthur Lynch, C. S. N., and Assist. Surg. Walter Taylor, South
Carolina Volunteers, the permanent surgeons of the post, had made every
preparation for the discharge of their duties, and would have been as-
sisted by Drs. IRaoul, Baruwell, and Porcher, who volunteered, but for-
tunately onr casualties were so few that their services as surgeons were
needless. They acted as staff officers. The Rev. Mr. Aldrich was pres-
ent during the cannonade. Dr. Maddox acted as surgeon at mortar bat-
tery No. 1, and Drs. Daviga and Logan at the Point and on board the
floating battery. Mr. John Wells, of South Carolina, acted as an ord-
nance officer at the Point battery under Captain Hamilton.
Our escape with only four slight casualties I conceive to be in a great
measure due to the strength of our defenses, the material of which had
been furnished under the direction of Maj. Walter Gwynn, chief engi-
neer, in lar-ge quantities since the 1st of January last. Major Gwynn
had also given his personal supervision to the construction of several of
the works. The batteries exterior to the fort and many of the works
adjacent were built under the superintendence of Captain Trapier, whose
accomplishments as an engineer are well known, and certainly are appre-
ciated by those who garrison works constructed by him.
Several times during the action I had the pleasure of meeting the brig-
adier-general commanding, and of receiving valuable assistance from
Captain Bruns and other officers of the staff. I wish to draw particular
and special attention to the valuable services of Messrs. John ilenery
and Charles Scanlan, acting military storekeepers, who have been on duty
with my command since January last. These gentlemen have given
every attention to their duty, and to them is due, in a great measure,
the high state of efficiency of our guns and ordnance. They were indis-
pensable during the action.
The Ordnance Department deserves and has my thanks for the mate-
terial furnished under so many adverse circumstances since the 1st of
January last.
Among other volun4eers, Maj. John Dunovant, of the Infantry, cam
Page 43
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 43
to Fort Moultrie early on the morning of the l3th,and was present dur-
ing the action, doing all that lay in his power.
I was deprived of the services of the commissioned battalion staff dur-
ing the cannonade. First Lient. James Hamilton, adjutant, was absent
sick on the 11th instant, but hearing of the probability of an engagement,
left his bed and came to report for duty. He remained until some time
after the action, when it was evident that his strength was gone. Lieu-
tenant Yates, battalion quartermaster, preferred the command of the
floating battery, and I excused him from staff duty.
Lient. Col. Hatch, quartermaster-general, had made preparations for
the extinguishment of fires. Mr. Priolean iRavenel was present with the
engines and a body of men to put them out should they occur. We were
fortunate, and he did what duty he was called on to perform.
I have the honor to inclose a return of th~ few wounded, a statement
ofshotfired, and such reports from commanding officers a~ I have re-
ceived. To them I beg to refer for the names of meritorious individuals
not mentioned above.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Th S. HIPLEY,
Lieutenant-Colonel of Artillery, Commanding.
Return of shot and shell fired from the batteries of Fort Afo4tltrie, Sullivans Isla d, and
Mount Pleasant, commanded by Lient. Col. R. S. Ripley, Artillery, South Carolina Army,
during the cannonade and bombardment of Fort Sumter, A 12 and 13, 1861.
Slien. Shot. Hot shot.
~J3 rA
a a
a a
0 .a ~ a
8 9 0 0 0 0 0
a a ~
o -~ H H ~ H
~ H H H ~ H H H
Fort Monitrie 6 248 305 105 41
Enfilade battery 300 300
Point battery 61
Floating battery 247 220
Mortar battery No. 1 185
Mortar battery No. 2 88. - - - -
Mount Pleasant mortar battery 81
Total 354 61 6 248 247 828 405 . 41
No. 12.
Report of Lieut. 6~ol. Wilmot G. Dc Saussure, South Carolina Army,
commanding Artillery.
HEADQUARTERS BATTALION OF ARTILLERY,
Morris Island, April 22, 1861.
Sin: I have the honor to transmit herewith the reports of Maj. P. F.
Stevens, of the Citadel Academy, assigned nuder Special Orders No. 8,
from Headquarters Provisional Forces, to the Iron and Point batteries
at this post, of Capt. George B. Cuthbert, commanding Palmetto Guard,
by which corps the above batteries were manned, and of Capt. J. G.
King, commanding Marion Artillery, by which corps the Trapier battery
was manned. These several reports contain the eveuts connected with
the bombardment and fall of Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, on Friday
Page 44
44 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
12th, and Saturday, 13th instants, so far as the above-named batteries
and corps were engaged.
An unavoidable delay in obtaining these reports has prevented me
from earlier reporting to you. From the day on which supplies were
cut off from Fort Sumter, on Sunday, 7th April, instant, the vigilance
which had watched over the channel unceasingly was, if possible, in-
creased, in order to prevent re-enforcement of men or supplies to the
beleaguered fortress. On the afternoon of Thursday, 11th April, instant,
I was notified that at a given signal the bombardment would commence,
and that the signal might be looked for about 8 p. m. Shortly before
that time the Trapier, Iron, and Point batteries were manned, the maga-
zines opened, and the signal awaited.
After keeping the men at the batteries until nearly i0p. m. they were
dismissed to their respective quarters, but warned to turn out imm~-
diately upon the signal being biven. At 4.30 a. m. of Friday, 12th April,
instant, the signal being given, the batteries were promptly manned,
and agreeably to the instructions furnished me for the firing of the mor-
tars, the fire was opened on Fort Sumter from the Trapier battery and
succeeded by the Point battery. The fire from this post was commenced
at 4.48 a. m. and continued from the mortar batteries at the prescribed
intervals until past 2 p. in., when, under orders from Headquarters Pro-
visional Forces, the intervals were doubled. Shortly after 5 a. in., and
when the early dawn enabled the guns to be properly worked, the fire
was commenced from the three 8-inch columbiads in the Iron battery
and the two 42-pounders in the Point battery. From the embrasures of
the latter the masks had been removed during the night of Thursday,
and also from the rifled cannon in position in the Point battery.
Under my instructions the fire from the columbiads and 42-pounders
was at the rate of four shot from each gun per hour. This interval was
taken with the purpose ef not overheating the guns, of not overfatiguing
the men, and that the firing, being conducted with great deliberation,
should be accurate. The desired purpose was, I believe, attained. The
guns weic chiefly directed to driving the men from the barbette guns of
Fort Sumter and to dismount as many guns as possible, and also to
drive the men from the casemate guns bearing upon this post. Shortly
after 7 a. m. of Friday, the 12th instant, the fire from Fort Sumter was
opened on this post, and for a considerable time was more directed here
than to any other point around the harbor. One hundred and twenty-
four shot were fired at the Iron battery, thirteen of which struck it. I
am unable to report the number fired at the Point and Trapier batteries,
or at the island and cantonments generally, but for a space of over two
hours on Friday a duel was kept up between the Point battery and Fort
Sumter, gun answering gun during that time. The fire from the guns
was continued until dark. The mortar fire was continued both day and
night.
On Saturday morning, 13th April instant, a little before 7 a in., the
tour of the mortars at this post having come round, the mortars were
discharged at the appointed intervals, and shortly afterwards smoke was
seen issuing from the officers quarters at Fort Sumter. The smoke in-
creased until about 8 a. n-i., when the flames burst forth. I believe the
fire was communicated from a shell thrown either by the right mortar
in the Trapier battery, or the left niortar in the Point battery; the shells
from these two mortars fell at or about the same place on the roof of the
officers quarters, and at that time the smoke was first observed from
this post. Upon the flames bursting out the rapidity of the fire was in-
creased, in order to spread the flames. Shortly before 10 a. in. Captai
Page 45
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
45
King was instructed to drop a shell on the southern end of the eastern
barracks, in order to communicate the fire also to it, and ~his fifth shell
passing through the roof at the designated point the fire was spread.
The fire from this post was then reduced to the regular intervals, and
so continued until 1.30 p. in., at which time, the flagstaff at Fort Sum-
ter being shot away, the fire from4this point was ordered to cease until
opportunity was given to Major Anderson either to replace his flag, or
by not replacing it signify a readiness to treat. The replacement of his
flag was not seen from this post, and the fire consequently not resumed.
The subsequent events are matters falling under your own orders.
The several reports herewith transmitted speak more fully of indi-
vidual acts of gallantry than my own position would enable me to do.
Of the gallantry of the troops engaged in the action, and of their per-
fect subordination, I cannot speak in terms too high. Few, if any, had
ever before been under fire, and yet the entire coolness with which the
guns were worked, and the accuracy of fire, would have reflected
credit upon veterans. The Trapier battery of three mortars was manned
by a portion of the Mariou Artillery, under the command of Capt. J.
Gadsden King, and the immediate direction of the battery assigned by
him to Lients. W. D. II. Kirkwood and Edward L. Parker. The fire
from these mortars appeared to me to be particularly good, a large pro-
portion of the shells bursting over Fort Sumter or within the parade.
The pointing of the mortars from this battery was chiefly done by Cor-
poral MeMillan King, jr., Privates J. S. Mardock and Robert Murdock,
and reflects upon them very great credit. The Sumter Guard, Capt.
John Russell, acted as a reserve to the Marion Artillery, and were en-
gaged during a part of the bombardment at the battery and also during
the night in working in the embrasures at the Point battery and in cov-
ering the iron battery in part with sand bags. -While thus engaged
during the night this company was nuder fire from Fort Sumter. The
remaining portion of the Marion Artillery were on duty at Battery G, a
Channel battery, to which were assigned Lieuts. J. P. Strohecker and A.
M. Huger. The presence of a fleet of war vessels outside the bar required
that this, in common with all the channel batteries, should be kept con-
stantly manned, and upon an alarm excited during the night of Friday
by a small boat being seen rowing near the shore, the preparation of this
detachment was shown by a fire being immediately opened on the boat.
The Iron battery, of three 8-inch columbiads, and the Point battery, of
three mortars, two 42-pounders, and one 12-pounder rifled cannon, were
manned by the Palmetto Guard, Capt. George B. Cuthbert. These two
batteries were assigned to the supervision of Maj. P. F. Stevens. The
fire from the Iron battery was under the immediate direction of Capt.
George B. Cnthbert and Lieutenants Lamb and Buist, and does great credit
to their skillful management. The battering from this battery is very
marked upon the exterior wall of Fort Sumter, while the accurate prac-
tice dismounted, as I believe, two of the barbette guns on the eastern
face, and to a considerable degree crippled one gun on the northern and
one on the southwestern face.
At about 11 a. in. of Friday the mantlet to the embrasure of gun No.2
was crippled by the lever-arm used in working it breaking from a flaw
in the n~on, and for some time this gun was unable to be used. The
mantlet was subsequently pried open and the gun renewed its fire.
The fire from the mortar at the Point battery was conducted under the
supervision of Lient. N. Armstrong, of the Citadel Academy, assisted
by Lient. C. R. Holmes, of the Palmetto Guard; and much praise is due
to them for the accuracy of their fire. As well as I can judge, thi
Page 46
46 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
battery competes with the Trapier battery for the honor of throwing
into Fort Sumter the largest number of shells thrown from any post in
the harbor. The rifled cannon in this battery was nuder the supervision
of Capt. J. P. Thomas, of the Citadel Academy, and its accnracy of aim
reflected well upon the skill of Captain Thomas, and was a valuable
auxiliary in driving the men from their guns. Tlie two 42-pounders
were managed by Licut. T. Sumter Brownfleld, and I cannot speak too
highly of their services. Twice on Saturday, 13th instant, I saw the
casemate bearing on this post manned, and instructed Lieutenant
Browufleld to drive the men awa~A, and in each case the shot striking
on the cheeks of the embrasures drove the men away. The venerable
Edmund IRuffin, of Yirginia, was at Vhi~ battery during the greater part
of the bombardment, and by his enthusiasm and example greatly incited
the men.
To Maj. P. F. Stevens, of the Citadel Academy, I but do justice in
saying that by example, by forethought, by energy, by his skill much
of the success from this post was achieved. He is entitled to most
honorable mention and to the highest praise.
To the companies manning the channel batteries much praise is due
for a vigilance which never slept, and through which everything look-
ing towards a re-enforcement was guarded against. It was confidently
believed by me that the channel batteries were far more likely to be
engaged than the batteries bearing on Fort Sumter, and until the bom-
bardment commenced I rested upon the troops at these batteries with
the firm assurance that they would permit no entrance whatever to the
beleaguered fortress, and the patient vigilance and endurance, the more
commendable because not being by the fortune of war at the posts of
combat on the 12th and 13th instants, when a hostile fleet lay off the
harbor and an hourly conflict was expected, cannot be too highly com-
mended. To the Wee Kee Riflemen, Capt. J. G. Pressley, Lieut. A. F.
Warley, and the detachment of the Wee Nee Riflemen, Lieutenant Keils
under him; the Columbia Artillery, Capt. A. J. Green; the German
Artillery, Capt. C. Nohrden, and Lieut. Col. Thomas G. Lamar, with
the volunteer detachment under him, I desire to pay the highest com-
mendation for a vigilance unsleeping and untiring. The gallant bearing
of these troops while standing as silent spectators of the bombardment
evinces that if it had been their good fortune to have been actively
engaged they would have rendered for themselves a faithful account.
Without invidious distinction I desire particularly to call to your at-
tention the services of the Columbia Artillery, Capt. A. J. Green, which
has been on duty unrelieved since 1st January last, and of the German
Artillery, Capt. C. Nohrden, which, with but short relief, has been on
duty since 27th December last. To Captain Green, as the company
longest in service, was given the choice of the batteries, and with char-
acteristic gallantry he chose the post which he believed certain of action.
The course of circumstances deprived himself and his brother com-
manders o[~ the channel batteries from joining in the engagement, while
it afforded to their equally gallant but more fortunate brother com-
manders of the Point batteries the opportunity of being engaged. All
were ready and all were gallant, and I desire to speak thus in justice
to all. To the valuable services of Sergeant Hamilton and Privates
Bugard, McCaa, Brooks, and Riley, of the Columbia Artillery, ren-
dered at the Iron battery in endeavoring to repair the injured mantelet
and lever-arm, I ask leave to call attention. I also desire to mention
with great commendation the valuable services rendered me by Capt.
F. ID. Lee, Corps of Engineers, assigned by you as a part of my staff
Page 47
CHAP.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 47
and to whose admirable field works too much praise cannot be awarded;
also to Lieut. J. iLtavenel Macbeth, my adjutant, and to Capts. J. Jones
and F. L. Childs, assistant commandants of batteries, I desire to call
attention for gallantry and cool determination in the extension of orders
and for valuable suggestions during the engagement. IIo Capt. P. Ger-
vais Robinson, M. D., Lieut. R. F. Michel, M. D., my medical staff and
to Drs. F. T. Miles and F. L. Parker, who kindly volunteered their
services as surgeons, I am greatly indebted for the thought and, care
with which they had prepared for the casualties of battle. They
were respectively assigned to the several batteries, and during the
entire engagement remained at the posts to which so assigned. No
casualties,Jam glad to say, required their presence; but I am not
the less indebted to them, and ask that they may be mentioned with
the honor to which they are so justly entitled. To Lieut. John Rut-
ledge, inspector of ordnance, and to Lieut. L. C. Williams, of the Ord-
nance Department, with his valuable sergeants, M. E. Iloqney and E.
W. Fuller (the latter of whom was specially detached from the Columbia
Artillery), I ask to call your particular attention. To the batteries under
my command their services were invaluable,and to them lowe,ina
very high degree, the efficiency of their fire.
Desiring through you, sir, to express to the commanding general of
the Provisional Forces my entire satisfaction with. the soldierly deport-
ment and bearing and with the efficient services rendered, as I believe,
by the troops under my command,
I have the honor to be, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
WILMOT G. DE SAUSSURE,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Artillery.
Brig. Gen. JAYrEs SnroNs,
Commanding ]Jiliorris Island.
No. 13.
Reports of ]LLaj. P. P. Stevens, commanding Point and Iron batteries.
CuJ~DnNGs POINT, MORRIS ISLAND,
April 13, 1861.
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that yesterday morning, about
4 oclock, a shell having been fired from Fort Johnson, accor(liug to
instructions I manned my batteries, and, following Captain Kings bat-
tery, opened fire on Fort Sumter from the mortar battery, which was
continued unabatedly night and day until the order was to-day given
to cease firing. The Iron battery and the 42-pounder batteries opened
their fire during all yesterday, and once during last night, when an
alarm was given that re-enforcements were endeavoring to enter the fort.
At ~i oclock this morning the fire was resumed from the Iron and 42-
pounder batteries, in conjunction with the fire of the mortar battery.
At about 7.30 a. m. Lieutenant Armstrong, in charge of the mortar
battery, reported to me that he had thrown a shell which broke into
the roof of Fort Sumter about the southwest angle and exploded
therein. He immediately pointed out the spot, from which the smoke
of the explosion had not yet ceased to issue. The smoke from this
point continued to arise and increase in volume, until about 8 oclock
the flame broke out, and soon enveloped the south roof. I immedi-
ately ordered my batteries to quicken their fire, and a rapid volley was
poured from all my batteries (mortars and heavy guns) for nearly three-
quarters of an hour. I think the fire from every battery under m
Page 48
48 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
command was most ably directed, and contributed greatly to increase
and spread the flames, which soon spread from roof to roof, causing
the explosion of shells and hand grenades on the different parapets and
greaIly injuring the works. The fire having partly expended its fury,
my fire was slackened by your order, and continued very much at the
rates prescribed in orders until about 1 oclock, when the flagstaff of
Fort Sumter fell, seemingly shot away. The fire was then stopped by
order of the commanding general, and not resumed from my batteries,
Major Anderson subsequently having surrendered, about 2 p. in.
It is impossible for me to particularize the individual officers or men
who behaved well during this action; but I think great credit due to
the effective fire of guns directed by officers and men, who, with the
exception of the officers of the Military Academy, had never until two
or three weeks since undertaken to manage artillery. Captain Cuth-
bert, of the Palmetto Guard, assisted by Lieutenant Buist, had especial
charge of the Iron battery with its three 8-inch columbiads; Lieutenant
Armstrong, bf the South Carolina Military Academy, assisted by Licut.
IR. Holmes, of the Palmetto Guards, had charge of the three 10-inch
mortars of the Point battery; Lieut. T. Sumter Brownfield, of the
Guard, had charge of the 42-pounders, and Capt. J. P. Thomas, of
the Citadel Academy, had command of the Blakely rifled cannon. For
some two hours yesterday a heavy fire was directed against my bat-
teries, but with very little effect, and absolutely no loss of life. The
Iron battery was struck several times with little damage, the balls
glancing and making little impression. Several shot were split, upon
striking the same. Early in the day one heavy shot struck the npper
end of the shutter of embrasure No. 2. The plates of boiler-iron com-
posing the same were considerably bent, or rather indented, by the blow,
even splitting the plate through. The shot, however, was completely
turned, and no real damage would have been experienced had it not
been for a flaw in the lever-arm which maneuvered the shutter. This
lever, to sustain a heavy weight as a counterpoise to the shutter, and
having a large flaw (not before seen) just in the bend of the arm, was
broken by the jar of the blow. The shutter was afterwards propped up,
and .the fire of the gun continued with great effect this morning. The
sand battery was a most effectual screen for the guns it covered, and is
absolutely uninjured by the fire of Fort Sumter. The rifled cannon
being but limitedly supplied with ammuiiition could do little, but its few
shots were skillfully directed by Captain Thomas.
I have the honor, sir, ~to congratulate you upon the share in this
great success and victory to which the troops under your command
are entitled.
Very respectfully, ~. F. STEVENS,
Major, Commanding Point and Iron Batteries.
Lieutenant-Colonel IDE SAUSsURE,
Commanding Battalion Artillery.
SUPERINTENDENTS OFFICE, CITADEL ACADEMY,
April 18, 1861.
MAJOR: Upon my return to this post I found the accompanying let-
ter, which had been written to me by Capt. G. B. Cuthbert during my
temporary absence from Morris Island.*
Sergeant Bissell did not exactly cripple the gun of the left casemate,
* Not found
Page 49
CHAP. I] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON hARBOR, S. C. 49
as a subsequent examination has proven, but Lieutenant Colonel IDe
Saussure stated to me that Captain Seymour had informed him that our
fire was so severe against the casemates bearing on my batteries that
the men were driven out; and this fact is confirmed by my own observa-
tionthat the fire from said casemates ceased about 2 oclock on Friday,
and was never renewed, although on Saturday my glass showed me some
men in one of the casemates about to fire, as I thought. Immediately I
ordered the two 42-pounders and Bissells 64-pounder to fire at the case-
mate, and the men within disappeared from sight.
Added to the names of Phillips and Campbell as working in the maga-
zine, I must mention McLane and Macbeth, working in the shell maga-
zine. To my knowledge McLane never left his magazine from the firing
of the first shell to the surrender of the fort. The captain is a little in
error in attributiw the accident to the shutter of the middle gun iu the
Iron battery to the recoil of the gun. In my report to Lieutenant-Colonel
De Saussure you will find it correctly attributed to a shot froiu Fort
Sumter. I most cheerfully agree with the captain in his praise of the
gallant conduct of the men who came for the tools and materials to re-
pair the broken lever, but I would not detract from their praise in men-
tioning that the heavy weights of the shutter and its counterbalance
again deranged the lever-bar, so that during 5atnrday~s engagements it
was necessary to prop up the shutter, and fire with it thus open the
whole day.
The incident alluded to in reference to Mr. Lining, the judge-advocate
of the Seventeenth Regiment, was as follows: Mr. Lining was erecting
the flag of the Palmetto Guard on the traverse in rear of the Iron bat-
tery when the first shot from Fort Sumter passed within a few feet
of him. The captain, thinking the position too exposed for the flag,
directed it to be transferred to the traverse on the right (at least that
is my impression). Certainly Mr. Lining removed the flag, amid the
rush and hiss of several balls flying near him, planted it securely on the
traverse to the right, and descended amid the plaudits of his comrades.
In all respects, save what I have here meuti ned, I fully indorse Captain
Cutliberts communication, and am obliged to him for the facts recalled
to my memory.
There is one somewhat remarkable incident which I beg leave here
to record. On Thursday evening our camp was thrown into considera-
ble excitement by the report that the demand was to be made for the
surrender of the fort, arid when it was reported that a white flag had
been sent to Sumter our batteries were all manned, and the men in
eager expectation were watching the fort. I was standing on the
traverse closing the left flank of the Iron battery. A number of men
were around rue. Suddenly the United States flag on Fort Sumter was
seen to split in two distinct parts, dividing from the front edge to the
back just along the lower extremity of the Union. I remarked to
the men around rue, I wonder if that is emblematical l Several re-
marked that it appeared ominous. For several moments the flag flew
in this condition,when it was hauled down and another flag raised in
its stead.
Very respectfully, ~. F. STEVENS
Major and Superintendent, Gitadet Academy.
Maj. ID. IL JONES,
Adjutant- General
Page 50
50 OPERATIONS JN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
No. 14.
Report of Gapt. B. Martin, commanding Mount Pleasant mortar battery.
MOUNT PLEASANT MORTAR BATTERY,
April 17, 1861.
GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the inclosed report of practice
at battery under my command.* Probably you will see I fired faster
than ordered. Captain Fergusou can inform you that Colonel Ripley
allowed me to fire faster. The officers and men are in good condition,
though much mortified at not being noticed by Major Anderson. After
the forty-eighth shot the fort was seen to be on fire, and the excite-
ment was so great no account was kept of the shots. I think we fired
about ten shells more.
I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
R. MARTIN,
Captain, Commanding Battery.
Brig. Gen. P. G. T. BEAUREcARD, C. S. A.,
Commanding Forces about Charleston, S. C.
P. 5.Lient. F. II. Robertson, of the Confederate Army, was of great
use to me. He was prompt and energetic in the discharge of his duties,
and was fully competent to the part assigned him by your order. I
cannot close without mentioning the services of Lieut. George N. Rey-
nolds, of the Confederate States Army, who acted as ordnance officer.
He showed an intimate acquaintance with his duties, and discharged
them well. In fact, all the officers behaved coolly, although under no
trial but that of excitement.
I am, general, your obedient servant,
R. MARTIN.
No. 15.
Report of Capt. William Butler, commanding mortar battery No. 2, Sulli
vans Island.
MORTAR BATTERY No. 2, SULLIVANS ISLAND,
April 16, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to submit my report upon the service of the
mortars under my charge during the bombardment of Fort Sumter on
the 12th and 13th instants.
On the night of the 11th the gunners were detailed and at their posts,
the mortar pointed, and the battery prepared for immediate action.
The following morning the signal for hostilities to commence being
announced both from Forts Johnson and Moultrie, we opened fire from
this battery upon Fo: t Sumter. The prescribed intervals for firing were
observed, until varied by verbal orders from the lieutenant-colonel com-
manding, directing me to shorten them, when an increased rate of firing
was commenced and continued until dark.
During the night the rate of firing was reduced to one shell in two to
three hours, but was again renewed the next morning at the increased
rate of the day before, and continued until about noon, when the signal
for surrender was observed and the firing ceased.
* Omitted as unimportant
Page 51
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 51
The channel battery, though not called into use, was kept manned
and ready for action. The fire of the enemy, which was not at any
time concentrated in this direction, was apparently pointed for the
hannel battery, and did no damage except to some of the adjacent
houses, the shot generally passing over us.
The officers under my command, Lieutenants iluguenin, Mowry,
Blocker, Billings, and Rice, rendered efficient assistance, performing the
duties assigned them with zeal and coolness. The men manned the
batteries both night and day with alacrity and cheerfulness. I inclose
a summary of the firing.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. BUTLER,
ADJUTANT, Gaptain, South Carolina Infantry.
Fort Jllioultrie.
No. 16.
Report of fJapt. W. R. ~Jaihoun, commanding Sumter battery, Port Moultrie.
FORT MOIJLTRIE, S. C., April 17, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report concerning the bombardment of Fort
Sumter on the 12th and 13th instants by the Sumter battery at Fort
Moultrie.
The fire was opened at 4.30 by Lieutenants Rhett and Mitchell, from
the second detachment of Company B, Battalion of Artillery. Lieu-
tenants Wagner, Preston, and Sitgreaves, with the whole of Company
A, manned the channel battery, to be ready to open fire in the event of
the United States fleet attempting to relieve Fort Snmter, and Lieut.
C. W. Parker, with three detachments of Company D, manned the
oblique battery.
The fire on Fort Sumter was kept up until 6 p. in., with satisfactory
results, by detachments from Companies A, B, and ID, arranged in
reliefs, as was considered necessary or advisable. At 6 p. m. the fire
from the Sumter battery ceased, and was resumed at 7 a. m. on the 13th.
The fire continued until the surrender of Fort Sumter under the direc-
tion of Lieutenants Wagner, Rhett, Preston, Sitgreaves, Parker, and
Mitchell, and Mr. F. ID. Blake, aiding and volunteering as lieutenant.
All officers and men discharged their dnties gallantly and efficiently,
and in a manner never surpassed under ~imilar circumstances.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. R. CALHOUN,
Captain, t~c.
Lient. Col. R. S. RIPLEY,
Chief of Artillery.
No. 17.
Report of Capt. J. IL Hallonquist, commanding mortar and enfilading
batteries.
FORT S1ZT~TER, April 17, 1861.
COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the
mortar and enflla~IIing batteries which I commanded during the recent
bombardment of Fort Sumter:
Owing to the fact that during the day I considered my personal atten
Page 52
52 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. (CHAP. I.
tion due more to the enfilading battery than to the mortars, I was chiefly
at the guns of the latter [former], but during the night I saw that your
orders relative to rate of firing were carried out. For i detailed account,
therefore, of the mortar battery I would refer to the report of Captain
Bruns to myself. I would call attention to the zeal and energy dis-
played by Captain Bruns, Lieutenants Flemming and Blanding, who
worked at the guns during the whole time exposed to the heavy rains
which fell on the morning and night of the 12th. I can say no more
than that they performed their duties as became South Carolinians.
Lieutenant Flemming commanded. Sergeants OGrady and Wheat and
Private Harlan, of Company B, were also untiring in the performance
of their duty.
On the morning of the 12th the enfilading battery opened fire imme-
diately after mortar battery No 1. Their rate of firing was at first much
more rapid than that established, but the fire was slackened first to four
then to six and eight, mintites interval between each gun. My princi-
pal object of the fire from this battery was to dismount the guns on the
right and left faces of Fort Sumter exposed to an enfilading fire. The
battery during the 12th and the morning of the 13th was the recipient
of quite a heavy fire from Sumter, chiefly from his 32-pounders in case-
mate. One shell from his barbette battery burst over the parapet, but
injuring no one. There was more danger from the splinters of the
wooden houses near by, which at every discharge were scattered over
the men at the guns. At 1O.~ oclock on the 12th I opened a ricochetting
fire on the western front of Fort Sumter, as it was supposed that re-en-
forcements were passing in. From this battery six hundred shots were
firedone hundred and twenty-five to each gun.
I would respectfully call your attention to the excellent conduct of all
the officers and men of Company K, Infantry Battalion. Lieutenants
Valentine and Burnet were always in the right place at the right moment,
and assisted me greatly in the management of the battery. For a report
by name of the non-commissioned officers and men I would respectfully
refer to Lieutenant Valentine, commanding the camp.
Charles Farelly, a citizen of Charleston, was untiring and active in
the performance of his volunteer duty. I neglected above to refer to
the good conduct of Corporal Smith at the mortar battery. lie is
reported by Lieutenant Fleinmiug, commanding, as deserving the great-
est praise for his general behavior during the bombardment.
Respectfully submitted.
J. II. HALLONQUIST.
R. S. RIPLEY, Colonel.
No. 18.
Report of Lient. Thomas M. Wagner, commanding channel battery.
FORT MOULTRIE, April 18, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report that on the signal for the attack on
Fort Sumter on the morning of the 12th instant, at 4~ oclock, the com-
pany went to battery, every man present. Thirteen guns on the chan-
nel battery were manned; a detachment of siy men were placed in the
magazine, nuder Mr. Scanlon, and the hot-shot furnace put nuder
Corporal Marshall, with four men. Eight detachments relieved Coin
Page 53
CHAP. I.J OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
53
pany B from Sumter battery from 9 oclock to 11 and from 1 to 3
on Friday, and from 12 to the end of the firing On Saturday. Detach-
ments from Company A were engaged during both days in supplying
the hot shot for the guns. The officers were at Sumter battery during
the whole engagement.
The conduct of both men and officers nnder me deserves the highest
commendation. All behaved so well that it would be invidious to
mention names. I beg to ask that the thanks of LAe officers of this
command may be tendered to Mr. F. Blake, who volunteered to assist
the officers in the arduous duties devolving upon them on account of the
smallness of their numbers. The zeal, ability, and gallantry displayed
by him deserve the highest commendation.
The men who were at the battery during the night of the 12th were
exposed to a violent storm, but submitted with cheerfulness to all their
hardships. During the whole engagement the channel battery was
manned, ready for the fleet.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
THOMAS M. WAGNER,
First Lieutenant Company A, Bat. Art., S. C. A.
W. R. CALHOUN,
Captain Company A, Bat. Art., S. C. A.
No. 19.
Report of Lieut. Alfred Rhett, commanding detachment ~Jompany B, Bat
talion Artillery, South 6arolina Army.
FORT SUMTER, April 17, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to draw your attention to the coolness and
meritorious conduct of the following non-commissioned officers and
privates of Company B, under my command, displayed during the
recent bombardment of Fort Sumter: Sergeants Schaffer and Edwards,
Corporals Fullum and Pettigru, and Privates McGill and Randall. The
whole command, indeed, behaved well.
I have the honor to remain, colonel, very respectfully
ALFRED RHETT
First Lieutenant, Commanding Detachment Company B.
Lient. Col. R. S. RIPLEY.
No. 20.
Report of Licut. Jacob Valentine, commanding enfilading battery.
DEAR SIR: According to General Orders No. 20 I send a report of
the firing from and against the enfilade battery and the conduct of
the officers and men nuder my command. Number of shots fired from
battery, 611. The object of our firing was to sweep the crest of the
parapet, the roofs of the quarters within Fort Sumter, to dismount the
barbette guns, if practicable, and to drive the enemy from the parapet.
The latter object was accomplished. At this distance it is impossible
to discern accurately the result of the firing. The firing from For
Page 54
54 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
Sumter against our battery was heavy, but, I am happy to say, ineffect-
ual, and resulted in neither in,jury to the battery or to the men.
I take great pleasure in bringing to your notice Lient. B. S. Burnet,
who, from the commencement to the last, was steady at his post, giving
all necessary orders, and by his ~xample gave double courage to the
men under my command. I would also mention First Sergeant P.
Cummings, Fourth Corporal C-. Kay; also Privates Tracy, Stewart,
Grant, Rawlins, Wheelis, Keen, Cody, Dwyer, and, indeed, the whole
company, with but few exceptions, performed their duty to my entire
satisfaction.
I cannot close my report without favorable mention of a volunteer
(Charles Farelly), who in the working of the guns rendered us material
service.
I am, colonel, your very obedient servant,
JACOB VALENTINE,
Col. li. ~. RIPLEY. Lieutenant, Commanding Enfilade Battery.
No. 21.
Reports of Capt. U. B. Cuthbert, Palmetto Guard, AS~outh Carolina Infantry.
PALMETTO GUARD ENCAMPMENT,
Morris Island, A 17, 1861.
DEAR SIR: In the report which I now make I propose to give an
account of the most prominent incidents connected with the batteries
manned-by the Palmetto Guard, and which transpired during the engage-
ment which took place on the 12th and 13th instant. I will also take
occasion to mention the names of those who particularly distinguished
themselves by their courage and efficiency. In conclusion I shall render
you a statement of the number of shells and solid shot fired from the
above-mentioned batteries.
The mortar battery at Cummings Point opened fire on Fort Sumter
in its turn, after the signal shell from Fort Johnson, having been pre-
ceded by the mortar batteries on Sullivans Island and the mortar bat-
tery of the Marion Artillery.
At the dawn of day the Iron battery commenced its work of demo-
lition. The first shell from columbiad No. 1, fired by the venerable
Edmund Ruffin, of Virginia, burst directly upon the parapet of the south-
west angle of the fort. After the first round the Iron battery continued
firing at regular intervals of fifteen minutes, in accordance with the orders
of General Beauregard. The mortar battery continued during the day
in the order prescribed.
At 7 oclock a. m. Major Anderson fired his first shot. This was
directed at the Iron battery. The ball passed a few feet above the upper
bolts of the shed. The enemy continued firing at too great an elevation
until the sixtli shot, which fell harmlessly upon the upper portion of the
shed, between the embrasures No. 2 and No. 3. At 9 oclock a. m.
columbiad No 1 became disabled by the recoil of the piece, which broke
the bolts connecting the chains with the epaulement. This damage was
repaired, however, after the expiration of an hour. At 10 oclock a. m.
columbiad No. 2, being aimed at the 10-inch columbiad bearing upon
the Iron battery from the parapet of the southwest angle, was fired with
such precision as to dismount the gilm monster. A few minutes after-
wards the window of columbiad No. 2 was struck near the center by
Page 55
Cn& i~. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 55
42-pounder shot, which shattered the bolts and scattered the fragments
between the cannoneers. The proper working of this window, however,
was not interfered with by this occurrence, but in a half hour after this
columbiad recoiled with such violence as to break the lever-bar by which
the window was lifted. This casualty prevented the use of this gun
until the following morning, several engineei~s being engaged for the
pnrpose of repairing it. After the second shot from the same piece on
the following morning the bar became fractured again in the same place,
and, until the surrender, columbiad No. 2 was fought with its shutter
opened permanently. The fire of the Iron battery was directed during
the first day at the guns in barbette and those in the casemates. Major
Anderson directed his fire for four consecutive hours, from 7 to 11 oclock
a. in., at the Iron battery, striking it seven times. He then pointed his
guns at the mortar battery of Cunimings Point, and making no impression
upon the unbroken wall of sand he turned his attention to the 42-pound-
ers, thrusting at successive intervals their muzzles along the sides of
their palmetto embrasures. At 4 oclock p. m. the gunners at Fort
Sumter ceased firing towards Morris Island, the batteries pointing in
that direction being completely silenced. The rifled cannon did great
execution, two of its balls passing entirely through the walls of Fort
Sumter.
On the morning of the 13th we attempted to breach with our colum-
biads by concentrating our fire upon a point to the right of the sally-
port, intending thus to effect another object at the same time, viz, by
the ricochet of the ball to beat away the traverse of granite, which had
been built up for the purpose of protecting the doorway from an enfi-
lading fire. We had fired but a few shots when a shell from the mortar
battery at Cummings Point fell upon the northwestern portion of the roof
of the fort. After the lapse of some minutes we perceived the smoke
issuing from that quarter. Soon flames burst upward. From that
moment until the flagstaff was shot down seven-second shells were
fired rapidly from the Iron battery, aimed in such a manner as to scatter
the flame and to increase the fury of The conflagration. I refer you,
dear sir, to the marks of shot and shell upon the outer and interior
walls of the fort to enable you to form an adequate idea of the accuracy
with which the columbiads, the mortars, the rifled cannon, and the
42-pounders of the Cummings Point batteries were aimed and fired.
The posts of the officers of the Palmetto Guard were as follows:
Captain Cuthbert commanded and directed the fire of the Iron battery;
First Lieutenant Holmes, assisted by Lieutenant Armstrong, of the
Citadel Academy, commanded the mort r battery; Second Lieutenant
Browufleld commanded and directed the fire of the 42-pounders; Cap-
tain Thomas, of the Citadel Academy, with a squad of the Palmetto
Guard, had cl4arge of tLe rifled cannon; to Major Stevens was assigned
the post of superintending the working of all these batteries, and he was so
recognized; Lieutenant Buist acted as gunner to No. 3 columbiad during
the greater part of the engagement, aiming many of his shots very
accurately.
Lieutenants Holmes, Browufleld, and Buist behaved throughout the
conflict with distinguished courage and gallantry. Major Stevens,
Captain Thomas, and Lieutenant Armstrong, by their coolness, bravery,
and skill, gave the highest evidence of their long military training.
Lieutenant Browufields 42-pounders were fired with great precision, and
to his industry and pride in his battery is attributable the fine working
comjitiou of his guns. To Mr. Phillips and Mr. Campbell much praise
is due for their untiring devotion to their particular department of th
Page 56
56 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
magazine stores. In the Iron battery, Orderly Sergeant Bissell aimed
many a capital shot at the casemates, and the two Sergeants Webb at
the parapet. Bissell crippled the gun of the left casemate, bearing
directly upon the Iron battery, and Serg. L. S. Webb dismounted
the lOinch columbiad upon the parapet. Second Sergeant Bissell and
Mr. Farelly also made some good shots. At the 42-pounders Sergeant
Brownfield, Corporals Rhett, Wright, and Dwyer distinguished them-
selves as gunners. At the mortar battery Sergeant Gaillard, Corporals
Robinson, Zalam, Br and Ithett (lid good service as gunners.
Capt. Stephen Elliott, of the Beaufort Artillery, was present during
the action on the 12th instant, and aimed several good shots.
On the same day when columbiad No. 2 was silenced in consequence
of the serious accident referred to above, to repair the damage it became
necessary to send forthwith to Charleston to procure the proper mate-
rials and implements. Privates Trouche, Craskeys, and Alrains volun-
teered to go in an open boat, under heavy fire from Fort Sumter and
Fort Johnson. They went, and succeeded ill accomplishing their errand.
A sand bag on the first day of the engagement seriously interfered with
the working of the window of columbiad No. 1. Private Allison vol-
nnteered to extricate the troublesome impediment. While engaged in
the performance of this important service a ball from one of the case-
mates of Fort Sumter passed directly over him, striking the iron shed.
He removed the bag and returned to his post.
The 8aflg-froid of Mr. Lining, the judge-advocate of the Seventeenth
Regiment, who served as a private during the engagement, has already
received ample commendation in the public prints. I can vouch for the
truth of the incident, having been an eye witness. (Please incorporate
the report of the Courier in relation to the circumstance.)
The appointment of the Palmetto Guard to the occupation of Fort
Sumter for one night was the highest compliment ever bestowed upon
any volunteer corps in the history of our State, aiid that event will
always be held by them in grateful remembrance. Upon reaching the
stronghold, however, their labors were not yet finished. I wish to take
no laurels from the brows of the members of the fire-engine companies
of Charleston, but truth requires that 1 should state that, from the
moment of their being disbanded withiii the walls of the fort, the Pal-
metto Guard worked incessantly at the engines until after midnight.
A proper respect for the memory o1~ the dead, as well as the desire to
put on record a noble act, induces me recount the following fact: Jmnme-
diately before the departure of the Palmetto Guard for Fort Sumter,
Sergeant Webb, Corporal Robinson, and Private Mackay placed a neat
and appropriate head-piece over the grave of the unfortunate Howe the
first victim of the sad explosion which took place while Major Ander-
son was engaged in saluting his flag. The performance of this sacred
duty did credit to their generous hearts, and proved that Carolina chiv-
alry exists only in combination with a spirit of reverence and magnanimity.
1 am proud of the opportunity of stating that all of the members of the
company conducted themselves nobly and bravely in the fight. Nor
will those whose names have not been mentioned in this report object to
the particular honorable notice of their gallant comrades.
Statement of ammunition expended upon Fort Sumter from the Iron
battery: Shell, 60; solid shot, 183.
Ammunition expended from the other batteries of Cummings Point:
Mortars, 197 shell 42-ponuders, 333 solid-shot, 3 grape-shot; rifled
cannon, 11 shot, 19 shell
Page 57
Giw~I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, 5; C. 57
With increased admiration for your own individual courage and effi-
ciency oii these two eventfal days, I remain, dear sir, your obedient
servant,
G. B. CUTIIBEJIT,
Captain Palmetto Guard.
W. 0-. DE SAUSSURE,
Colonel. Commanding Battalion of Artillery.
PALMETTO GUARD ENCAMPMENT,
Morris Island, April 20, 1861.
DEAR SIR: I write to make an addition to the report which you re-
ceived yesterday. Please incorporate the following:
Private Gourdin Young volunteered to accompany Colonel Wigfall in
a small boat when the latter gentleman was instructed to proceed to Fort
Sumter on the fall of the United States flag, for the purpose of inquir-
ing into the cause of that circumstance and to propose a surrender of
the fortification. During the passage from Morris Island, amid an in-
cessant fire of shell and grape, he displayed that coolness and deter-
mination characteristic of a true South Carolinian. Upon his return
he was borne upon the shoulders of his fellow-comrades to the Iron
battery.
With great respect, I remain yours, very truly,
G. B. CUTHBERT.
Col. W. 0-. DE SATJSSIJRE.
No. 22.
Report of Capt. J. Gadsden King, commanding Marion Artillery.
Sin: In accordance with your order I beg to report that the Trapier
battery on Morris Island, which was manned by the Marion Artillery,
under my command, opened fire on Fort Sumter at 4 a. m. of Friday,
the 12th instant, and continued firing in its turn, at the rate of one sbell
from each mortar, or three from the battery, every thirty-two minutes,
until about 2 oclock p. in., when the order was given to slack the fire
and to fire at double the intervals, or at an interval of four minutes
between each mortar in the harbor, which was obeyed until dark, or 7
oclock, when the firing was reduced to a shell every twenty minutes
until 4~ a. m. of Saturday, the 13th instant, when the fire was resumed
at the rate of a shell every four minutes until the fort was set on fire
by a shell fired from the mortar No. 3 of the battery worked by my
command, upon which the fire was quickened by order of Colonel Wig-
fall, an aid of General Beauregard, until the fort was in flames, at which
time I was ordered to slacken the fire and to fire at the rate of one shell
every four minutes as before, until it was seen that the west and south
buildings of the fort alone were going to burn, upon which you ordered
me to increase my fire and to drop my shell upon the eastern buildings
of the fort, in order to set them on fire. This I tried to do, and at the
fifth discharge from my mortars the mortar No.2 of my battery dropped
a shell through the roof of the eastern quarters, as I had ordered, and
so set them on fire, thus burning the quarters.
On Friday I twice thought that shells from my battery set the fort
on fire, but I am not sure. During the burning of the fort I had the
fuse of my shells cut to its full length, so as to allow the shells to fal
Page 58
58 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. (CHAP. I.
and explode in the interior of the fort. The fire was kept up antil the
flag of Fort Sumter was either burned or shot down, when it was stopped
by your order.
The total number of shell fired by the Marion Artillery was one hun-
dred and seventy, of which I feel sure that at least three-fourths either
burst on the ramparts or in the fort itself.
Where all behaved so well it is impossible to discriminate between
any of them, but I deem it my duty to mention the names of my officers,
Lients. W. D. II. Kirkwood, J. P. Strohecker, A. M. Huger, and E. L.
Parker; Lieutenants Kirkwood and Parker having had immediate charge
of the mortars. I also deem it my duty to mention the names of my three
gunners, Corporal MeMillan King and Privates J. S. and Robert 1\Iur-
dock, who aimed every mortar that was fired from the battery from the
beginning of the firing until its close, a period of thirty-four hours, day
and night. My thanks are due to the detachment of fifteen men from
the Sumter Guards, Capt. John Russell, for services rendered during the
last three hours of the bombardment.
My warmest thanks and greatest approbation are due to my whole
command for the prompt and cheerful manner in which they obeyed
every order.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. GADSDEN KING,
Captain First Artillery, S. C. ill., Commanding JUlarion Artillery.
Lient. Col. W. ft D~ SAUSSURE,
Commandant of Batteries.
No. 23.
Report of Ijeut. J. E. ]JlieP. Washington, Battalion of Artillei~y, South
clarolina Army.
QHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Fort Johnson.12.45, flagstaff struck; 1.5, United States flag, Union
down, with white flag above. Officer seen on southwest angle with
white flag, waved repeatedly. A few moments afterwards a sergeant
and twelve men recognized on the parapet. One mortar fired from upper
battery before the white flag on Sumter was discovered. Going to Fort
Sumter. All firing stopped.
Respectfully,
J. E. McP. WASHINGTON,
Second Lieutenant, Battalion of Artillery,
South Carolina Army.
No. 24.
Report of Lient. C. W. Parker, Company D, First Artillery, South Caro.
lina Army.
Sin: In accordance with orders received from Headquarters South
Carolina Army, I have the honor to submit the annexed report of duty
performed by the detachment of Company D under my command
during the action of the 12th and 13th instants.
Hoping that the efficient, arduous, and willing services rendered b
Page 59
Cm~r. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
59
the men may merit your approbation, I have the honor to be, very
respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. W. PARKER,
Second Lieutenant, Company D.
Capt. W. R. CALHOUN,
Commanding Batteries at Fort ]JiEoultrie.
The detachments of Company ID, First Artillery, South Carolina
Army, Lieutenant Parker commanding, served at Fort Moaltrie (luring
the action of the 12th and 13th instants, as follows, viz:
Oblique battery.April 12, from 9 a. m. to 12~ p. m. April 13, from 9
a. m. to 12~ p. m.
Sumter battery.April 12, from 3 p. m. to 54 p. m.
Number of shot and shell ftred.From oblique battery, 110 solid-shot
and 5 shell; from Sumter battery, 40 solid-shot.
C. W. PARKER,
Second Lieutenant, Commanding Detachment Company D.
No. 25.
Joint reports of James tJhesnut, Jr., Lient. aol. A. B. Chisoim, Capt. S. D.
Lee, and ]tfessrs. John L. Manning, William Porcher Miles, and Roger
A. Pryor, aides-dc-camp.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES, C. S. A.,
Charleston, S. C., April 11, 1861.
SIR: In obedience to the orders of Brigadier-General Beauregard,
we left headquarters at 2.20 p. in., charged with a communication from
him to Major Anderson, at Fort Sumter, in which we were authorized
to demand the evacuation of the fort. We arrived there at 3.45 p. in.,
under a white flag. Lieutenant Davis, the officer of the day, received
ns very politely, and on being informed that we had a message in
writing for Major Anderson which we desired to deliver in person to
the officer in command of the fort, conducted us into the presence of
Major Anderson. We were welcomed by the major with great courtesy,
who, aftei~ receiving and reading our communication, left us to consult
with his officers. About 4.30 he again joined us, bringing his reply,
the contents of which he stated to us, after which, and but a short
time before departing, we held a short conversation with him, in the
course of which he made the following remarks: Gentlemen, if you
do not batter the fort to pieces about us, we shall be starved out in a
few days. These words, under the circumstances, seemed to have
much significance, and to be of sufficient importance to induce us to
report them particularly. We took leave of Major Anderson and the fort
at 4.40 p. in., and reached the city at 5.10 p. m. We verbally reported
immediately at headquarters the substance of what is written above.
All of which is respectfully submitted for the information of the
brigadier-general commanding.
JAMES CHESNUT, JR.,
Atde-de-Can~p.
STEPHEN ID. LEE,
C~aptain C. S. Army, Aide-de-Can~p.
A. li. CHISOLM,
Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-de-Camp.
lVIaj. ID. R. JONES,
Adjutant-General of the Provisional Forces, C. S. A., Charleston, S. 0
Page 60
60 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. ~Cnir. I.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, ~. 0., April 12, 1861.
SIR: We have the honor to submit the following report of our move-
ments and action:
After leaving the brigadier-general commanding last night, at 11
oclock p. in., in obedience to orders we repaired with the second commu-
nication to Major Anderson, at Fort Sumter. This communication was
based on the telegram from Hon. L. P. Walker, expressing a desire not
to injure the fort unnecessarily, and wishing to make another effort to
avoid any useless effusion of blood. We reached Fort Sumter at 12.45
a. in., delivered the communication, and received Major Andersons re-
ply at 3.15 a. m. He expressed his willingness to evacuate the fort on
the 15th instant at noon, if provided with the necessary means of trans-
portation, if he should not receive prior to that time contradictory in-
structions from his Government or additional supplies, and that he
would not in the mean tinie open his fire upon our forces unless com
pelled to do so by some hostile act against his fort or the flag of his Gov-
ernment by the forces under General Beauregards command, or by any
portion of them, or by the perpetratien of some act showing a hostile
intention on our part against his fort or the flag it bears. His reply,
which was shown to us, plainly indicated that if instructions should be
received contrary to his purpose to evacuate or if he should receive sup-
plies, or if the Confederate troops should fire on hostile troops of the
United States, or upon transports covered by his flag, although contain-
ing men, munitions, and supplies intended for him, and designing hos-
tile operations against us, he would still feel himself bound- to fire upon
us, and at liberty not to evacuate Fort Sumter.
These terms being manifestly futile so far as we were concerned, plac-
ing us rather at a great disadvantage, and not within the scope of the
instructions verbally given us, we promptly refused them and declined to
enter into any such arrangements. Under these circumstances, pursu-
ing our instructions, we notified him at once in writing that our batter-
ies would open fire upon him within an hour from that time, which
would be at 4.20. We then proceeded at once to Fort Johnson, which
we reached at 4 a. in., and to Capt. George S. James, commanding at
that post, gave the order to open fire at the time indicated. His first
shell was fired at 4.30 a in., the other batteries generally opening at
4.45 a. nim. We were delayed at Fort Sumter longer than we expected,
and we think longer than was necessary to decide upon the communica-
tion we received, and so indicated to Major Anderson; but this delay
we could not avoid. Immediately upon leaving Foi~t Johnson we reported
to General Beauregard, at his office, about daylight.
All of which is respectfully submitted for the information of the briga-
dier-general commanding.
JAS. CHESMJT, JR.,
Aide-de- Oamp.
STEPHEN ID. LEE,
Captain, C. S. Army, Aide-de-Gamp.
Maj. D. R. JONES,
Adjutant- General of Provisional Forces, Charleston, S. C.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, S. C., April 13, 1861.
SIR: In obedience to orders from the commanding general, Beaure-
gard, we left the wharf at 11.15 a. in., and proceeded in an open boat t
Page 61
CIL4P. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 61
deliver communications to Brigadier-General Simons, commanding on
Morris Island, and passing under the batteries of Fort Johnson landed
in the rear of Major Stevens battery. Our orders were specifically to
ask information as to the condition of the batteries on the island, and
any other facts necessary to be communicated from Brigadier-General
Simons to the commanding general, and also to establish military
communications by land from Morris Island to the city of Charleston.
We were moreover instructed to le~irn the condition of Fort Sumter as
far as practicable without unnecessary exposure, and if the bombard-
ment and conflagration within had forced an evacuation by Major
Anderson and his command.
At the period of passing Fort Sumter about 12 m. the firing from
it had ceased, except occasional shots opposite Fort Moultrie but was
kept np with great precision and regularity by the batteries f?roln Fort
Johnson, Sullivans Island, and Morris Island. The conflagration of
the officers quarters in the fortress appeared to be on the increase, and
although the United States flag was still flying when we landed, there
appeared no other evidence of the continuation of the contest.
After communicating with General Simons and establishing a land
communication with the city, it was deemed advisable to send a flag to
Fort Sumter and demand its evacuation, as at 1.10 p. m. precisely the
United States flag had suddenly disappeared from its walls. While a
white flag and the boat which bore us over was being made ready to
take us, Colonel Wigfall, who had been detailed for special duties on
Morris Island, thinking that no time was to be lost lest the garrison
be destroyed, and accompanied by Private Young, of the Pahuetto
Guard, and two oarsmen, hastily entered a small skiff and pulled towards
the fort with a white flag in his hand. Its size was too small to be
distinctly seen by our batteries, and in consequence the discharge of
neither shot or shell was discontinued by them, except those on Morris
Island. His approach, therefore, to Sumter was one of imminent danger.
We saw him after landing disappear into the fort through an embra sure.
After the lapse of a short period of time he reappeared upon the pave-
ment at the base of the fortification and re-embarked, directing his
course to where we stood, at Major Stevenss battery. Meantime the
flag that had been erected after the flag-staff was cut away was taken
down and a white flag run up in its stead. Before reaching the shore
on his return Colonel Wigfall gave evidence that Major Anderson had
consented to evacuate, which was soon after confirmed. He was received
npon the beach by the troops, who for a moment rushed out to meet
him, with strong evidences of admiration. We then took Colonel Wig-
fall with us in our boat and
eral commanding. , returned to the city to report to the gen-
Brigadier-General Simons had no specific intelligence to communi-
cate to the general commanding beyond the events narrated; but we
take pride and pleasure in reporting the spirit, promptness, and energy
which characterized the portion of his command inspected by us.
All of which is respectfully submitted for the information of the
general commanding.
JAMES CHESNUT, JR.,
Aide-de- Camp.
A. IR. CIIISOLM,
Lieutenant- Golonel and Aide-de- camp.
JOHN L. MANNING,
Aide-de- Camp.
Maj. I). H. JONES,
Adjutant- General Provisional Forces
Page 62
62 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES, C. S. ARMY,
Charleston, S. C., April 15, 1861.
SIR: We have the honor, to submit the following report of our visit to
Fort Sumter on the 13th instant for the informatiou of the brigadier-gen-
eral commanding:
After reporting to the general the execution of the orders with which
we were charged for Morris Island, and in cornpany with Colonel Wigfall
reporting the surrender of Fort Su~nter, and also its dangerous condi-
tion from the fire occasioned by the hot shot from Fort Moultrie, we
proceeded, by order of the brigadier-general commanding, immediately
to Southern warf, where we embarked on board the steamer Osiris for
Fort Sumter, accompanied by the chief of the city fire department, Mr.
Nathan, with a fire engine and its company. On our arrival at Fort
Sumter we were met by Dr. Crawford, surgeon of the fort, who directed
us to avoid the wharf; as it was in danger of blowing up at any moment
from its mines. The doctor conducted us into the presence of Major
Anderson, on the opposite side of the fort from the wharf, we entering
the fort through an embrasure. We found the barracks totally destroyed
by fire, occasioned by our shells and hot shot. We stated to Major Ander-
son that we had been sent to Fort Sumter by General Beauregard with
a fire engine, to offer assistance to extinguish his fire and to render any
other assistance he might require, and also Surgeon-General Gibbes, of
South Carolina, and assistants were present to administer to any wounded
he might have. The major replied that he thanked the general for his
kindness, but that his fire was almost burned out, and that he had but
one man wounded, and he not seriously. We asked him if the magazine
was safe. He replied he thought the lower magazine safe, though it was
amid the burning ruins, and that he had thrown about one hundred barrels
of powder into the water from the upper magazine during the action, for
the safety of his command. VVe again asked him if he did not think it
best to use the engine which accompanied us on the steamer, which lay
out in the stream. He replied nothat he thought everything had been
consumed that would burn.
Major Anderson expressed great satisfaction when we told him that
we had no casualties on our side, and again asked us to thank General
Beauregard for his kindness; and, on leaving, the major accompanied us
himself as far as our small boat. We returned to the city and reported
the result of our visit to General Beauregard about 7 p. m.
All of which is submitted for the information of the brigadier-general
commanding.
JAMES CHESNUT, JR.,
JOHN L. MANNING,
Aides-de-Camjp.
A. B. CHISOLM,
Lientonant- Colonel and Aide-de-Camjp.
Maj. B. 11. JONES,
Assistant Adjutant-General Provisional Forces, C. S. A.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES, C. S. A.,
Charleston, S. C., April 15, 1861.
MAJOR: On Friday, April 12, we received orders from General
Beauregard to carry dispatches to General IDunovant, commanding on
Sullivans Island. We were directed to communicate the purport of
the dispatches, which were open, to Captain Martin, in command of the
floating battery and the Dahlgren-gun battery; to Captain ilallonquist
Page 63
CHAP. I.J OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
63
in command of the enfilade battery and a masked mortar battery near
the same spot; and to Colonel Ripley, in command of Fort lVloultrieall
of them posts on Sullivans Island. We set out on our mission at 9
oclock a. in. and proceeded in a boat to Monnt Pleasant. After com-
municating with Captain Martin we rowed over to and landed on the
floating Iron battery. We fonnd Lieutenant Yates actively engaged
in returning the fire from Fort Sumter, which was then specially directed
against his battery. The latter had been repeatedly hit, but had suc-
cessfully resisted all the shot (32-pounders) which had struck it, with the
exception of one, which liad passed through the narrow, angular slope
just below the roof.
After spending some time in this battery we proceeded to the IDahl-
gren-gun battery, where Captain Hamilton was commanding in person.
Both the floating battery and the IDahlgreu gun were directing their
special attention to the dismounting of such of the guns en barbette upon
Fort Sumter as the batteries could be brought to bear upon. The fire
from both batteries was effective and well sustained. We next visited
Captain Hallonquists enfilading battery, which was doing some ad-
mirable shooting. After remaining here a short time we proceeded to
Captain ilallonquists mortar battery, and from thence to Fort Moultrie.
Here we found. ~n active, regular, well-sustained, and well-directed fir-
ing going on, which was being most vigorously returned by Fort Sum-
ter. The quarters were pretty well riddled, and the furnace for hot shot
twice struck, but not materially injured.
After carefully watching the firing for some time we visited Captain
Butlers mortar battery, where we found General Dunovant and deliv-
ered our dispatches. We then returned to Fort Moultrie, and after
spending about an hour there proceeded back to the cove, where our
boat was awaiting us, aiid touching at the floating battery for a corn-
munication for headquarters we rowed over once more to Mount Pleas-
ant, for the purpose of delivering a message from Lieutenant-Colonel
Ripley (by request) to Captain Martin. We then returned to the city,
which we reached about half-past 4 p. in., and immediately reported
verbally at headquarters to the brigadier-general commanding.
We cannot conclude our report without expressing the extreme pleas-
ure and gratification which we felt at the coolness, spirit, skill, and
alacrity which we witnessed at all points among the officers and men.
Very respectfully,
WM. POJICHER MILES,
JOHN L. MANNING,
Aides to Briqadier
Maj. ID. U. JONES, - General Beauregard.
Assistant Adjutant- General, Provisional Porce8, C. S. A.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY, C. S. A.,
Charleston, April 15, 1861.
Sin: We have the honor to submit the following report of our visit
to Fort Sumter on the 13th instaut:
Infoimed about 1 oclock that no flag was waving over Fort Sumter,
General Beauregard detached us immediately to proceed to the fort
and say to Major Anderson that his flag being down and his quarters
in flames we were sent to inquire if he needed any assistance. When
about half-way from the city to Fort Sumter we observed that the
United States flag had been raised again. At once we determined to
go back to the city, but had not proceeded far in return when, discover-
ing a white flag floating from the ramparts of Sumter, we again direct
Page 64
[CHAr. L
64 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
ed our course to the fort. On landing we were conducted to the pres-
ence of Major Anderson, whom we informed that iu consequence of the
conflagration in the fort we had been sent by General Beauregard to in-
quire if he needed any assistance. Major Anderson replied: Present
my compliments to General Beauregard, and say t9 him I thank him
for his kindness, but need no assistance. Continuing~ the major said:
Gentlemen do I understand you have come direct from General Beau-
regard a? We replied in the affirmative. ~~Why,~) returned Major
Anderson, Colonel Wigfall has just teen here as an aide to an(l by au-
thority of General Beauregard, and proposed the same terms 6f evacuia-
tion offered on the 11th instant. We informed him we had just left
General Beauregard in the city, and had come in obedience to his orders,
charged with the message just delivered. The major expressed regret
for tlie misunderstanding, and repeated that he had understood Colonel
Wigfall to say he was direct from General Beauregard, and as one ot
his aides was authorized to propose terms of evacuation. We then in-
quired if he would reduce to writing the terms proposed by Colonel Wig-
fill. To which the major replied, certainly he would Major Anderson
then declared that he would immediately run up his flag; that he re-
gretted it had ever been taken down, and that it would not have been
lowered if he had not uuderstood Colonel Wigfall to cone directly from
General Beauregard to treat. We requested that, under the peculiar
circumstances, he would not raise his flag until we could communicate
to General Beauregard the terms of evacuation with which he had fur-
nished us; he assented to the proposition, and we left the fort.
STEPHEN D. LEE,
Captain, C. S. Army.
ROGER A. PRYOR,
WM. PORCIJER MILES,
Aides-de- Camp.
Maj. D. H. JONES,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Provisional Forces, C. S. A.
No. 26.
Joint reports of Maj. D. P. Jones, Assistant Adjutant-General, C. S. Army;
and Col. Charles Aliston, Jr., Commander lii. I. lliartstene (C. S. Navy),
and Miessrs. William Porcher Miles and Roger A. Pryor, aides-de-camp.
CHARLESTON, April 15, 1861.
SIR: We, the undersigned, beg leave to submit the following report
of our visit to Fort Sumter, and of our interview with Major Anderson,
on Saturday, the 13th instant, in obe4ience to your orders.
We arrived at the fort about a quarter to 3 oclock p. in.; were met
at the wharf by Captain Seymour, and were at once conducted to the
presence of Major Anderson. We informed him that we came from you
to say that, on learning the fort was in flames, and his flag down, you
had sent Colonels Miles and Pryor and Captain Lee, members of your
staff, to offer any assistance in your power, and that as soon as his flag
of truce was hoisted you sent us to receive any propositions he might
wish to make. Major Anderson said an exceedingly disagreeable and
embarrassing mistake had occurred; that his flagstaff had been shot
down, but that as soon as it could be done his flag was again hoisted.
Just at this time it was reported to him that General Wigfall wa
Page 65
CHAP. I.] OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. 65
outside the fort demanding to see the commanding officer. Major
Anderson said that he went out and met General Wigfall, who told him
that he caine from General Beauregard to demand the surrender of the
fort, and urged Major Anderson to haul down his flag and run up a flag
of truce; that General Beauregard would give him the same terms
offered before the conflict began~ Major Anderson then stated that he
was much surprised to learn from Colonels Miles and Pryor and Captain
Lee, who had arrived at the fort soon after he had lowered his flag, that
although Geneial Wigfall was on the staff of General Beauregard, he
had been two days away from him, and was acting on the staff of some
general on Morris Island; that as soon as he (Major Anderson) learned
this, he told Captain Lee that he would immediately run up his flag and
recommence his firing.
Major Anderson then read to ns a note which he had sent to you by the
hands of Captain Lee, in which he said that he would surrender the fort
on the same terms offered by you in your letter to him on the 11th in-
stant. On learning this we told him that we were anthorized to offer
him those terms, excepting only the clause relating to the salute to the
flag, to which Major Anderson replied it would be exceedingly gratify-
ing to him, as well as to his command, to be permitted to salute their
flag, having so gallantly defended the fort nuder such trying circum-
stances, and hoped that General Beauregard would not refuse it, as such
a privilege was not unusual. We told him we were not authorized to
grant that privilege, and asked him what his answer would be if not
permitted to salute his flag. He said he would not urge the point, but
would prefer to refer the matter again to you, and requested us to see
you again and get your reply.
Major Anderson requested us to say to Governor Pickens and your-
self that, as an evidence of his desire to save the public property as much
as possible, he had three times on Friday and twice on Saturday sent
his men up to extinguish the fire under the heavy fire of our batteries,
and when the magazines were in imminent danger of being blown up.
We then returned to the city and reported to you substantially as above.
We have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient
servants,
Ii. R JONES,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHAS. ALLSTON, JR.,
Bug. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD, Colonel and A. D. 0.
Commanding Provisional Army.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 14, 1861.
GENERAL: In accordance with your order we have the honor to make
the following report:
On Saturday, April 13, at about 7 oclock p. in., we proceeded to Fort
Sumter by your order to arrange finally the conditions of the evacuation.
We presented your commumlication to Major Anderson, who, after perusing
it, read it aloud to his officers, all of whom, we believe, were present.
The niajor expressed himself much gratified with the tenor of the com-
munication and the generous terms agreed to by you. We inquired
of Major Anderson when he desired to leave. He said as soon as pos-
sible, and suggested 9 oclock the next morning. It was arranged that
the Catawba or some other steamer should convey the major and his
command either directly to New York or T)ut them on board the United
States fleet then lying outside the bar, according as one or the other
plan might be agreed upon after a conference with the commander of
5R
Page 66
[CHAP. I.
66 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTO1~ HARBOR, S. C.
the fleet. Major Anderson requested us to take Lieutenant Snyder
down to the fleet for the purpose of arranging the matter. This Cap-
tain Hartstene undertook to do.
We have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servants,
D. R. JONES,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
WM. POIdJilER MILES,
11. A. PIIYOR,
II. J. IIARTSTENE, C. S. N.,
Aides-de- Camp.
Brigadier-General BEAxJREt~ARD,
Comdg. Provisional Army, C. S. A.
No. 27.
Medical report of Surg. Gen. !~. W. Gibbes, South ~iJarolina Army.
HEADQUARTERS SURGEON-GENERAL5 DEPARTMENT,
Charleston, April 16, 1861.
SIR: From the returns received from the various posts I have the un-
exampled and happy privilege of stating that no serious casualty has
occurred during the vigorous action of thirty-three hours in reducing
Fort Sumter. Four trifling contusions are reported at Fort Moultrie,
but none at other posts, and it is a subject of equal gratification that
even in the management of heavy ordnance by new recruits and un-
practiced volunteers no accident to life or limb has occurred.
Immediately upon the flag of Fort Sumter being struck I proceeded
to that fortress to tender my assistance and hospital at Mount Pleasant
to Major Anderson, and received from him the pleasing intelligence that
only four cases of slight injuries had resulted to his men. On Sunday
a sad casualty occurred in saluting his flag, when the explosion of some
loose cartridges beneath a gun struck down seven men. One was
instantly killed, and another so seriously wounded that he died soon
after reaching my hospital in Charleston; one remaining in the hospital,
doing well under the care of Prof. Or. Or. Chisoim, of the medical college
of the State, and four were removed with the garrison. The precipita-
tion suddenly of several regiments upon me during the past few days,
totally without any preparation of their surgeons, has required a large
supply of medicines, instruments, hospital stores, & c., but I am happy
to say they have received promptly all their requisitions.
Respectfully, H. W. GIBBES, M. D.,
Surgeon-General South Carolina Army.
Adjutant-General JONES.
No. 28.
Report of Commander if. J. lliartstene, C. S. Navy, concerning the trans-
portation of Major Anderson and his command from Fort Sumter to the
U. ,~. fleet off Charleston Bar.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES, C. S. A.,
Charleston, S. C., April 16, 1861.
MAJOR: On the afternoon of the 13th instant, shortly after the sur-
render of Fort Sumter, I was placed on board the steamer Catawba to
convey to the fort, in connection with Major Jones, Captains Miles and
Pryor (aides to Brigadier-General Beauregard), to arrange with Majo
Page 67
CHAP. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
67
Anderson the means most acceptable to him for his evacuation the fol-
lowing day.
The major, agreeably to our offer, sent on board of us Lieutenant
Snyder to confer with the commander of the fleet off the bar in regard
to transportation. I accompanied him out on the morning of the 14th
instant, and after a short conference he returned to the fort, where it
was arranged that the steamers and all necessary facilities for the
removal of the comman(l should be ready at 11 oclock, and that they
should be conveyed to the fleet, and have the option either of taking
passage in one of their vessels or of going on the one furnished by the
Confederacy.
At 11 oclock all facilities were at the disposal of Major Anderson,
but the work of removal was delayed in consequence of the accidental
explosion which killed and wounded five of his command. They were
not all embarked until sundown, when it was too late to cross the bar.
This, however, was effected early the following morning, and the com-
mand shortly afterwards was transferred to the steamer Baltic, one of
the transports of the United States.
All of which is respectfully submitted for the information of the brig-
adier-generaL commanding.
Respectfully, & c.,
II. J. IIARTSTENE.
Maj. D. R. JONES,
Asst. Adjt. Gen. of Provisional Forces, C. S. A., Charleston, S. C.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ORDERS RELATING SPECIALLY
TO THE OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR FROM
OCTOBER 31, 1860, TO APRIL 14, 1861.
UNION~ CORT?ESPONDENCE, ETC.
ORDNANCE OFFICE, WAR DEPARTMENT,
Col. J. L. GARDNER, Washington, November 1, 1860.
Commanding Fort Jifoultrie, ~Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: I transmit herewith a copy of a letter addressed by me to the
Secretary of War, which has been approved by him, and which I sub-
mit to you for your views as to the expediency or propriety of placing
arms in the hands of hired men for the pnrpose indicated.
Should you approve the measure I will thank you to request Military
Storekeeper Humphreys to make the issue indicated in said letter, and
to report the fact to this office that it may be covered by an order for
supplies.
Respectfully, & c.,
H. K. CRAIG,
Colonel of Ordnanee.
[Thclosure.]
ORDNANCE OFFICE, WASHINGTON, D.C.,
Hon. J. B. FLOYD, October 31, 1860.
Secretary of War:
SIR: There is at Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, now in course of
construction, besides a part of its armament, a considerable quantity o
Page 68
68 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CuAP. 1.
ammunition, & c., and it has been suggested by the Engineer officer in
charge of the work that a few small-arms placed in the hands of his
workmen for the protection of the Government property there might
be a useful precaution. If the measure should, on being communicated,
meet with the concurrence of the commanding officer of the troops in
the harbor, I recommend that I may be authorized to issue forty mus-
kets to the Engineer officer.
With much respect,
II. K. CRAIG,
Colonel of Ordnance.
[Indorsement.]
WAR DEPARTMENT,
October 31, 1860.
Approved:
J. B. FLOYD,
AS~ecretary of War.
FORT MOIJLTRIE, S. C., November 5, 1860.
Col. II. K. CRAIG,
Chi~f of Ordnance, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: Your communication of 1st instant, with its inclosure,
in reference to placing forty muskets in the hands of the Engineer
officer in charge of Fort Sumter as a precautionary measure proper to
this time of excitement, is received. My views are asked on two, or
rather three points:
1st. On that which forms the condition of the Secretarys approval
of the issue, namely, that I concur in its expediency;
2d. On the propriety of placing the arms in the hands of hired men
for the purpose indicated; and,
3d. On the expediency of doing so.
To the first I reply that I have already said in effect, on my post
return for last month, that while I do not apprehend that any attempt
upon the United States works here will receive the countenance of the
State or city authority, it is by some thought that a tumultuary force
may be incited by the feeling of the time, and invited by the present
disordered condition of the works to make such an attempt without it,
and that this possibility makes it incumbent on me to provide as far
as I may against it, and forty additional musketeers would then be
desirable.
As to the propriety of the issue I see no objection. The arms need
not be delivered to the men selected by the Engineer officer till the
occasion should actually obtain. The workmen in charge of the property
are bound on principles of common law to defend it against purloiners,
to say nothing of the 96th Article of War, applicable to all persons
whatsoever receiving pay from the United States.
The expediency of the measure is quite another question of less
obvious features.
There are one hundred and nine men at Fort Sumter, most of them
laborers of foreign nativity, of whom it is prudent to be somewhat sus-
picious, for I am just informed that on some of them being questioned
(as is the wont of the times) on the point of their proclivity in the
event of secession, replied to the effect that they were indifferent, and
intimated that the largest bribe would determine their action, and the
Page 69
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
69
can, you know, discharge themselves of their public obligations at any
moment, and thus be free to choose sides.
Now, forty muskets in the hands of the faithful among them might
control the rest, but certainly not on a ckse push from outside. The
Engineer officer can, he says, keep the arms beyond the physical possi-
bilitv of being taken from him by the nntrustworthy, and he can cut
off all communication peremptorily with citizens. Now, unless soume
such precaution be taken, this large body of laborers may, in the possi-
ble event in question, unrestrainedly deliver up the post and its con-
tents on a bribe or demand. Meanwhile they cannot be removed out-
side of that isolated island post, which has not a foot of ground beyond
the walls of the fort. In this connection I may add that at this post too
(Fort Moultrie) we have about fifty laborers of like description with
knowu secession propensities, as they are residents permanently of this
quarter.
On the point of expediency, then, I am constrained to say that the
only proper precautionthat which has no objectionis to fill these two
companies with drilled recruits (say fifty men) at once, and send two
companies from Old Point Comfort to occupy respectively Fort Sumter
and Castle Piuckney.
I am, colonel, yours respectfully,
JNO. L. GARDNER,
BrLvet Colonel, U. S. Army.
[Indorsement.]
ORDNANCE OFFICE, November 8, 1860.
Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War, with the remark
that as the issue of forty muskets, approved by him 31st ultimo, was con-
tingent on the approval of Colonel Gardner, it is probable that the issue
has not and will not be made without further orders.
II. K. CRAIG,
Colonel of Ordnance.
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C
Col. H. K. CRAIQ November 10, 1860.
Chief of Ordnance, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
SIR: On the 7th instant I received an order from Colonel Gardner,
commanding troops in the harbor, to issue to him all of the fixed ammu-
nition for small-arms (percussion caps, primers, & c.) at this arsenal such
a step being advisable, in his estimation, for the better protection of the
property in view of the excitement now existing in this city and State.
Being allowed no discretion in the matter, his order being peremptory,
I proceeded to obey it on the afternoon of the 8th. Captain Seymour
having come up from Fort Moultrie, with a detachment of men and a
schooner, for the purpose of removiug the stores, the shipment of them
was interfered with by the owner of the wharf until the city authorities
could be notified, and there were but three or four cart-loads on board.
I considered it best thin t they should be reconveyed to the magazine
until something definite should be determined upon, which was done.
Not having heard anything further from Colonel Gardner relative to this
matter, I conceive it my duty to report the facts in the case, which I
respectfully submit.
Very respectfully, I am. s, your most obedient servant,
F. C. IIUMPIIREYS,
Military Storekeeper Ordnance, (Jommnanding
Page 70
70 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CaAP. I.
[Indorsements.]
ORDNANCE OFFICE, November 13, 1860.
Respectfully referred to the Adjutant-General for the information of
the Secretary of War, with the remark that I am not aware by what
authority Colonel Gardner undertook to give such an order.
II. K. CRAIG,
Colonel of Ordnance.
WASHINGTON, D. C. Nov ember 11, 1860.
Col. S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General, Washington City:
SIR: In compliance with instructions from the Secretary of War of
the 6th instant, I inspected the fortifications and troops in Charleston
Harbor, and have now the honor to report as follows:
FORT MOULTRIE.
This post is garrisoned by Companies E and H, First Artillery, and
the regimental band is quartered there.
State of the command.
Field and sta~Bvt. Col. John L. Gardner, lieutenant-colonel First
Artillery, commanding; Asst. Surg. Samuel W. Crawford, medical de-
partment.
Company offlcers.Capt. Miner Knowlton, Company H, absent sick
since August 12, 1850; Capt. Abner Doubleday, commanding Company
E; Bvt. Capt. Truman Seymour, first lieutenant, commanding Company
H; First Lieut. Otis II. Tillinghast, regimental quartermaster, and act-
ing adjutant at regimental headquarters, absent since May 29, 1860;
First Lieut. Theodore Talbot, Company II; First Lient. Jefferson C.
Davis, Company E; Second Lieut. Samuel l3reck, Company E, on duty
at the Military Academy since September 13, 1860; Second Lieut. Nor-
man J. Hall, Company II, acting assistant quartermaster and acting as-
sistant commissary of subsistence since Sept~mnber 1, 1860, and post adju-
tant.
Enlisted men.Band and staff 9 musicians, 1 hospital steward, 1 ord-
nance sergeant absent.
Companies E and H, for duty, 36; on extra or daily duty, 13; sick, 4;
in arrest or confinement, 11; absent in confinement, 2. Total, 64. Pres-
ent at inspection, 30; artillery drill, 21; infai~try drill, 23; comprising
all who, in the opinion of the commandinb officer, could with propriety
and safety be taken from other duties.
The officersLieutenant Talbot in delicate health exceptedare in
good health, and capable of enduring the fatigues incident to any duty
that may be demanded of them. They are sober, intelligent, and active,
and appear acquainted with their general duties, perform them with
some exceptions punctually and promptly, and all are anxious to give
the commanding officer the aid to which he is entitled.
The non-commissioned officers and privates appear intelligent and
obedient, but do not move with an alacrity and spirit indicating the ex-
istence of a strict discipline.
* * * * * * *
A portion of the work interior and exterior, is necessarily encumbered
by material being used in repairing parapets, beds for guns, and arran
Page 71
CHAP. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 71
ing for the defense of the fort. un other respects the police of the post
is good.
* * * * * *
The hospital and storehouses are outside the forts. All are old frame
buildings, highly inflammable, and not secured by the presence or watch-
ful eye of a sentinel from the acts of evil-disposed persons. An incen-
diary could in a few minutes destroy all the supplies and workshops of
the command.
Lieutenant Hall states that he has some difficulty iii procuring suita-
ble flour and pork in Charleston, sometimes having to return the former,
while the latter cannot at times be purchased. He has about two months
supply of provisions for the present command.
* * * * * * *
The ungarded state of the fort invites attack, if such design exists,
and much (liscretion and prudence are required on the part of the comman-
der to restore the proper security without exciting a conimunity prompt
to misconstrue actions of authority. I think this can be effected by a
proper commander, without checking in the slightest the progress of the
engineers in completing the works of defense. Any interference with
that labor would probably rouse suspicions and create excitement. All
could have been easily arranged several weeks since, when the danger
was foreseen by the present commander. Now much delicacy must be
practiced. The garrison is weak, and I recommend that a favorable op-
portunity be taken to 1111 up the companies with the best-drilled recruits
available. * * * *
* *
The following events, which transpired the day I arrived at Fort
Moultrie, I deem proper to report here, as I have orally heretofore, as
they relate to an act of unusual importance, tendin gto indicate the inflam-
mable and impulsive state of the public mind in Charlestonto a great
extent characteristic of the feeling manifested throughout the State
and necessity for prudence and judgment on the part of the command-
ing officer in all transactions which may bear upon the relations of the
Federal Government to the State of South Carolina, and of the Army to
our citizens. I regard it especially important to refer to them, as Colo-
nel Gardner informed me he should make no report.
The military storekeeper has at the arsenal in the city a large num-
ber of arms and quantity of ammunition, which, fearing it might fall
into improper hands, he desired to secure to the United States, and
under counsel from Colonel Gardner he packed them up and held in
readiness to be shipped to Fort Moultrie whenever Colonel Gardner
should send for them. Availing himself of an approved requisition for
paints, lacquers, & c., needed at the post, he sent Captain Seymour to the
city for the supply and other articles that the military storekeeper
might wish to have stored at the post, and thus secured in case of negro
insurrections. The owner of the wharf refused permission to ship them.
A crowd collected, and suspecting an attempt on the part of the Govern-
ment to smuggle (it being late in the evening, or after dark) arms,
ammunition, & c., from the city, to be used against it, or to prevent their
use by citizens in case of disturbances, would not permit the property
to be carried away.
FORT SUMTER.
Fort Sumter is not completed, and is now occupied by the Engineers,
under the direction of Lieutenant Snyder (Captain Foster being absent)
Page 72
72 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
who has employed upon it some hundred and ten men. A portion of
the armament is mounted, but for its defense a few regular soldiers, to
overawe the workmen and to control them, only would be necessary at
present. The lower embrasures are closed, and if the main gate be
secured a storming-party would require ladders twenty feet in length
to gain admission. No arms are here, and I doubt if they would be
serviceable in the hands of workmen, who would take the side of the
stronger force present. Unless it sliould become necessary I think it
advisable not to occupy this work so long as the mass of engineer work-
men are engaged in it. The completion of those parts essential for the
accommodation of a company might be hastened. The magazine con-
tains thirty-nine thousand four hundred pounds of powder. The num-
ber of guns on hand is seventy-eight, consisting of 8 and 10 inch colum-
biads, 8-inch sea-coast howitzers. 42 pounder guns, and 32 and 24.
pounders, with carriages, shot, shell, implements, & c.
CASTLE P1NCKNEY.
Castle Pinckney commands Charleston, and its armament is complete.
Here the powder belonging to the arsenal in the city is stored. A coni-
pany can be accommodated here, while a small force under an officer
would secure it against Surl)rise or even a bold attack of such enemies
likely to undertake it. It is under the charge of an ordnance sergeant,
who keeps everything in as good order as possible. The quarters and
magazine require repairs. Under present circumstances I would not
recommend its occupation.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. J. PORTEI~,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C.,
November 12, 1860.
Col. II. K. CRAIG,
Chi~f of Ordnance, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
SIR: In view of the excitement now existing in this city and State,
and the possibility of an insurrectionary movement on the part of the
servile population, the governor has tendered, through General Schuierle,
of South Carolina Militia, a guard, of a detachment of a lieutenant and
twenty men for this post, which has been accepted.
Trusting that this course may meet the approval of the Department,
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
F. C. HUMPIIREYS,
Military Storekeeper Ordnance, Commanding.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
Washington, D. C., November 12, 1860.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Care of A. A. G., ffdqrs. Army, New York:
SIR: The Secretary of War desires to see you, and directs that you
proceed to this city and report to him without unnecessary delay.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General
Page 73
CHAP. .1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 73
FORT IVIOULTRIE, S. C., November 14, 1860.
Col. 11. E. DE PUSSY,
Gommanding Corps of Engineers, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to inform YOU that I arrived here on
the morning of the 11th instant. I found that the pintle blocks for
the howitzer embrasures at Fort Monitrie had not arrived and that the
work was waiting for them. The communications being finished con-
necting the interior of the caponieres with the interior of the fort, and
no cover for them being prepared as yet, I judged it prudent to con-
struct temporary flanking arrangements at once, in consideration of
the peculiar state of the public feeling here an(l the wishes of several
officers of the garrison, including the commanding officer. These I
commenced yesterday morning and completed last night, including the
construction of temporary platforms and placing four field pieces in
position. These temporary flanking arrangememits occupy the positions
that the caponieres are to occupy, one of them having its lines four
feet within the walls of the caponiere, so as to give room for the masons
to work. This temporary construction can therefore stand until I
finish the outside caponiere, which I shall do as soon as possible with-
out waiting longer for the pintle stones.
I have made these temporary defenses as inexpensive as possible, and
they consist simply of a stont board fence, ten feet high, surmounted
by strips filled with nail-points, with a dry-brick wall two bricks thick
on the inside, raised to the height of a mans head, and pierced with em-
brasures and a sufficient number of loopholes. Their immediate construc-
tion has satisfied and gratified the commanding officer, Colonel Gardner,
and they are, I think, adequate to the present wants of the garrison.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
SPECIAL ORDERS,
No. 137. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
New York, November 15, 1860.
Major Robert Anderson, First Artillery, will forthwith proceed to Fort
Moultrie. and immediately relieve Bvt. Col. John L. Gardner, lieu-
tenant-colonel of First Artillery, in command thereof; who, on being
relieved, will repair without delay to ~an Antonio, Texas, and report
to the commanding officer of the Department of Texas for duty, with
that portion of his regiment serving therein.
By command of Lieutenant-General Scott:
L. THOMAS,
Assistant AdjutanL general.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Capt. J. G. FOSTER, Washington, November 20, 1860.
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: Your letter of the 14th, reporting the temporary defensive
arrangenments you have had carried out since your arrival at Fort
Moultrie on the 11th instant, has been received, and your proceedings
are apl)roved.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
Captain of Engineers, in charge
Page 74
74 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, November 20, 1860.
Col. II. K. CRAIQ
Ordnance Department:
SIR: In obedience to the instructions of the War Department I came
to this place and have assumed command of the arsenal. The excite-
ment concerning this arsen?il which existed here a short time since is
very much allayed, and this result is in a great measure due to the pru-
dence and discretion of the military storekeeper, Mr. Humphreys,
whose conduct on the occasion meets my commendation.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
BENJ. HUGER,
Brevet- Colonel, U. S. Army.
[Indorsement.]
ORDNANCE OFFICE, November 24, 1860.
Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War for his information.
WM. MAYXADIER,
Captain of Ordnance.
No. 1.] FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., November 23, 1860.
Col. S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General, U. S. Army:
COLONEL: In compliance with verbal instructions from the honorable
Secretary of War, I have the honor to report that I have inspected the
forts of this harbor. As Major Porter has recently made a report in re-
lation to them, I shall confine my remarks mainly to other matters, of
great importance, if the Government intends holding them. At Fort
Moultrie the Engineer, Captain Foster, is working very energetically on
the outer defenses, which will, should nothing unforseen occur to pre-
vent, be finished and the gnus mounted in two weeks. There are sev-
eral sand hillocks within four hundred yards of onr eastern wall, which
offer admirable cover to approaching parties, and would be formidable
points for sharpshooters. Two of them command our work. These I
shall be compelled to level, at least sufficiently to render our position
less insecure than it now is. When the outworks are completed, this
fort, with its appropriate war garrison, will be capable of making a very
handsome defense. It is so small that we shall have little space for
storing our provisions, wood, & c. The garrison now in it is so weak as
to invite an attack, which is openly and publicly threatened. We are
about sixty, and have a line of rampart of 1,500 feet in length to defend.
If beleaguered, as every man of the command must be either engaged or
held on the alert, they will be exhausted and worn down in a few days
and nights of such service as they would then have to undergo.
At Fort Sumter the guns of the lower tier of casemates will be
mounted,the Engineer estimates, in about seventeen days. That fort is
now ready for the comfortable accommodation of one company, and, in-
deed, for the tenmpouary reception of its proper garrison.
Captain Foster states that the magazines (4) are done, and in excel-
lent condition; that they now contain 40,000 pounds of cannon powder
and a fall supply of ammunition for one tier of gumins. This work is the
key to the entrance of this harbor; its guns command this work, amid
could soon drive out its occupants. It should be garrisoned at once.
Castle Pinckney, a small casemated work, perfectly commnanding the
city of Charleston, is in excellent condition, with the exception of a fe
Page 75
CHAP. 1.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION.
75
repairs, which will require the expenditure of about ~5OO. They are
lst, replacing three water casks and the old banquette on the gorge; 2d,
repairing one of the cisterns and the old palisading, which, though much
rotten, may at a trifling expense be made to answer for the present; 3d,
making six shntters for the embrasures and doing some slight work to
the main gates. Two mortars and a few other articles belonging to this
work were taken to the United States Arsenal in Charleston some months
since for repair. They are still there. I shall ask the officer in charge
to return them as soon as he can. The magazine is not a very good one;
it contains some rifle and musket powder, said to be good, and also some
cannon powder reported damaged. The powder belongs to the arsenal.
It is, in my opinion, essentially important that this castle should be im-
mediately occupied by a garrison, say, of two officers and thirty men.
The safrty of our little garrison would be rendered more certain, and OUV
fort would be more secure from an attack by such a holdin~ of Castle
Pinekucy than it would be from quadrupling our force. The Charles-
tonians would not venture to attack this place when they knew that their
city was at the mercy of the commander of Castle Pinckney. So impor-
tant do I consider the holding of Castle Pinckney by the Government
that I recommend, if the troops asked for cannot be sent at once, that I
be authorized to place an Engineer detachment, consisting, say, of one
officer, two masons, two carpenters, and twenty-six laborers, to make
the repairs needed there. They might be sent without any opposition
orsaspicion, and would in a short time be sufficiently instructed in the
use of the guns in the castle to enable their commander to hold the
castle against any force that could be sent against it. If my force was
not so very small I would not hesitate to send a detachment at once to
garrison that work. Fort Sumter and Castle Piuckney must be garri-
soned immediately if the Government determines to keep command of
this harbor.
I need not say how anxious I amindeed, determined, so far as honor
will permitto avoid collision with the citizens of South Carolina.
Nothing, however, will be better calculated to prevent bloodshed than
our being found in such an attitude that it would be madness and folly
to attack us. There is not so much of feverish excitement as there
was last week, but that there is a settled determination to leave the
Union, and to obtain possession of this work, is apparent to all. Castle
Piiickney, being so near the city, and having no one in it but an ord-
nance sergeant, they regard as Iready in their possession. The clouds
are threatening, and the storm may break upon us at any moment. I
do, then, most earnestly entreat that a re-enforcement be immediately
sent to this garrison, and that at least two companies be sent at the
same time to Fort Sumter and Castle Piuckneyhaif a company, under
a judicious commander, su ~flcing, I think, for the latter work. I feel
the full responsibility of making the above sugg~stions, because I firmly
believe that as soon as the people of South Carolina learn that I have
demanded re.enforcements, and that they have been ordered, they will
ocrupy Castle Piuckney and attack this fort. It is therefore of vital
importance that the troops embarked (say in war steamers) shall be
designated for other duty. As we have no men who know anything
about preparing ammunition, and our officers will be too much occupied
to instruct them, I respectfully request that about half a dozen ordnance
men, accustomed to the work of preparing fixed ammunition, be sent
here, to be distributed at these forts.
Two of my best officers, Captain Seymour and Lieutenant Talbot, are
delicate, and will, I fear, not be able to undergo much fatigue
Page 76
76
OPERATIOI~S IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
With these three works garrisoned as requested, and with a supply of
ordnance stores, for which I shall send requisitions in a few days, I shall
feel that, by the blessing of God, there may be a hope that no blood will
be shed, and that South Carolina will not attempt to take these forts by
force, but will resort to diplomacy to secure them. If we neglect, how-
ever, to strengthen ourselves, she will, unless these works are surren-
dered on their first demand, most assuredly immediately attack us. I
will thank the Department to give me special instructions, as my posi-
tion here is rather a politico-military than a military one.
I presume, also, that the President ought to take some action in ref-
erence to my being a member of the Military Academy Commission,
which is to reconvene in the city of Washington in a few days.
Unless otherwise specially directed, I shall make future communica-
tions through the ordinary channels.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, ~3lommanding.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
Washington, November 24, 1860.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Regiment Artillery, U. S. A.,
Commanding Fort Moultrie, Charleston, S. C.:
MAJOR: The Secretary of War desires that you will communicate,
with the least delay practicable, the present state of your command, and
everything which may relate to the condition of the work under your
charge and its capabilities of defense, together with such views as you
may have to suggest in respect to the same. He desires to be informed
whether, in view of maintaining the troops ready for efficient action
and defense, it might not be advisable to employ reliable persons, not
connected with the military service, for purposes of fatigue and police.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant-General.
Col. R. E. BE RUSSY, CHARLESTON, S. C., November 24, 1860.
Commanding Corps of Engineers, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that, yesterday, at the re-
quest of Major Anderson, now in command of Fort Moultrie, I accom-
l)anied him on a visit to the other forts in the harbor, viz, Fort Sumter
and Castle Pinckney, for the purpose of examining their condition and
capacities for defense. Fort Sumter, having all the arches of the second
tier turned, and a commencement made in laying the flagging; the
traverse circle of the first tier reset; the flagging inside of the circles, on
one face, laid ready for the guns to be mounted; preparations completed
for mounting all the guns of this tier as fast as the flagging is laid; th~
floors in one barrack laid; officers quarters Completed; the whole of
the barbette tier ready for the armament, presented an excellent appear
ance of preparation and strength equal to seventy per cent. of its
efficiency when finished.
In the opinion of Major Anderson it is ready for, and ought to receive
Page 77
CHAP. I. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 77
at least one company, and I understand him to be about to ask for that
garrison immediately.
We next visited Castle Piuckney, which was found in excellent order,
with the exception of some repairs required on the wooden banquette 011
the gorge, first tier, some new casemate embrasure shutters, and the
second cistern to be rebuilt. All other parts of the work were in good
order, as it had but recently been thoroughly repaired with the above
exceptions.
Major Anderson is about to urge upon the Department the sending of
one company, also, to this fort, which commands the city of Charleston.
In that case I think the second cistern should be repaired at once, and
also the necessary renewal given to the decayed wooden banquette, over
the cisterns on the gorge, and to the casemate shutters. Iii would, there-
fore, respectfully ask for the sum of six hundred dollars from the Con-
tingencies of fortifications for this purpose. Regarding the shutters
asnecessarytoberepairedatonce,lam,inanticipationofyourapproval,
having it done at this time.
There is another matter in connection with this work which Major
Anderson suggested, and which may become important in view of the
unsettled state of the public mind here, the temper of which seems not
to be improving, and that is, to garrison Castle Piuckney with Engineer
employ~s in case the Department does not consider it expedient to send
troops for the purpose. At his request I have made an estimate of the
cost, as follows:
* * * * * *
Total for the first month $1,600
The second month will be 1, 050
I consider it proper to give you the above information i
you may be fully aware of what is transpiring. n order that
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,~ ~ G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
[Indorsement.]
Return to Governor Floyd.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON, November 28, 1860.
U. S. Army, we., Port iilionltrie:
MAJOR: Your letter of the 24th instant has been received and sub-
mitted to the Secretary of War. it is now under consideration, the
result of which will be duly communicated to you. In the mean time
authority has been given by the Engineer Bureau to Captain Foster to
send to Castle Piuckney the Engineer workmen
for purposes of repairs, & c. , as suggested by you,
The Secretary desires that any communications you may have to
make for the information of the Department be addressed to this office,
or to the Secretary himselt
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~. COOPER,
Adjutant-General
Page 78
78 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S.. C. [CHAr. I.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, November 28, 1860.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston S. C:
CAPTAIN: Your letter of the 24th instant has beeii received, and in
reply I have to say that you are authorized to make the repairs which
you report as necessary to Castle Piuckney, and that, as recommended
in your letter, you are authorized to organize a working force of an offi-
cer, four mechanics, and thirty laborers.
To meet the expenditures at that work, specified in your estimate,
the sum of $1,800 will be furnished you from the appropriation for
Contingencies of fortifications.
Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
61aptain of Engineers, in charge.
No. 2.] FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., November 28, 1860.
Col. S. COOPER,
Adjutant-General U. S. A.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com-
munication of the 24th instant. I presume that my letter of the 23d
has been received, and that the Department is now iii possessiou of my
views in reference to the measures I deem advisable and necessary for
keeping this work and this harbor. Your letter confines my answer to
what ref& rs to the work under my charge. I cannot but remark that I
think its security from attack would be more greatly increased by throw-
ing garrisons into Castle Piuckney and Fort Sumter than by anything
that can be done in strengthening the defenses of this work. There are
several intelligent and emcient men iii this community, who, by inti-
mate intercourse with our Army officers, have become perfectly well
acquainted with this fort, its weal~ points, and the best means of attack.
There appears to be a romantic desire urging the South Carolinians to
have possession of this work, which was so nobly defended by their an-
cestors in 1776; and the State, if she determines to act on the aggres-
sive, will exert herself to take this work. The accompanying report ex-
hibits the present state of my command. I think I can rely upon their
doing their duty, but you will see how sadly deficient we are in num-
bers, whether to repel a coup de main or to maintain a siege. We fin.
ished mounting our guns this morning, and I shall soon commence drill-
ing and exercising my men in firing with muskets and cannon. I find
that in consequence of sickness, & c., very little military duty has been
attended to here for a long time; we shall try, and I hope to succeed in
regaining the lost ground. This work, when Captain Foster finishes
the ditch, counterscarp, and bastionettes on which he is now at work,
and executes the addition of a half battery at the northwest angle of
the fort, which I have urged him to commence immediately, will be in
good condition. I would have preferred having a ditch (wet), but the
captain informs me that he could not make it, in consequence of the
quicksand. I will send a requisition in a few days (I am very constant-
ly occupied now) for certain ordnance stores. Among them I shall em-
brace a couple of Coehorns, say four mountain howitzers and twenty of
the heaviest revolvers, with a supply of ammunition. I believe that we
have no muskets for firing several charges. I would have been please
Page 79
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.---UNION. 79
to get four of them for the half bastion, but if there are none I will re-
place them by something else. I would like to get these articles as soon
as possible, as I wish to practice onr men with the different arms I may
have to use. God forbid, though, that I should do so. Colonel Huger
has just left me he came down stating that there was the greatest ex-
citement in the city ou account of a rumor that the Adger was bring-
ing out four companies. Some of the gentlemen were in favor of taking
steamers and going out to intercept the Adger. He has just returned.
I told him that I had no intelligence of anything of the kind.
In reply to the suggestion of the honorable Secretary about the expe-
diency of employing reliable persons not connected with the military
service, for purposes of fatigue and police, I must say that I doubt
whether such could be obtained here. Tliey would certainly be of great
assistance to us. The excitement here is too great. Captain Foster in-
forms me that an adjutant of a South Carolina regiment applied to him
for his rolls, stating that he wished to enroll the meu for military duty.
The captain told him that they had no right to do it, as the men were
in the pay of the United States Government. I presume that every
able-bodied man in this part of the State, not in the service of the Gen-
em-al Government, is now being or has been enrolled.
I will thank the Government to give me special instructions in refer-
ence to a question which may arise in these cases:
What shall I do if the State authorities demand from Captain Foster
men who they may aver have been enrolled into the State service ~
Captain Foster will probably send such cases to me; what shall I do
with them l
I hope that my command will very soon be strengthened, so far at the
least as filling up these companies to the legal standard. This would
enable me, at all events, to have our proper garrison military duties l)rOP-
erly attended to.
I am inclined to think that if I had been here before the commence-
ment of expenditures on this work, and supposed that this garrison
would not be increased, I should have advised its withdrawal, with the
exception of a small guard, and its removal to Fort Sumter, which so
perfectly commuamids the harbor and this fort.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Iiajor, First Regiment Artillery, Commanding.
Field report of command at Fort 3foultric, present this day.
Present for duty. Officers. Mien.
Commissioned officers *7
Band 8
Non-commissioned staff 2 ~- 66
Non-commissioned officers 17
Privates 39
Sick privates 2)9
Confined privates 7
75
YIInc~usive commanding officers, special service
Page 80
80
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
CHALILESTON, S. C., November ~8, 1860.
Col. IR. E. DE Russv
Commanding Corps of Engineers, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I wrote you a few days since in relation to certain contin-
gencies of defense which might occur before long in this harbor. I only
wish to add now that if the War Department decides not to send more
sol4iers here, but to avail itself of the Engineer force to guard Forts
Sumter and Piuckney, I shall require the assistance of another Engineer
officer. For several reasons my personal attention is required at Fort
Moultrie just now. I require Mr. Snyder to give his personal attention
to Fort Sumter, and such other matters as arise from time to time. In
all probability it will soon become necessary to confine his duties more
closely to Fort Sumter, and if I have to supply men to Castle Pinckney
I shall want another Engineer officer to direct their labors and duties.
It is not certain that the emergency requiring the above division of
the Engineer duties under my charge will arise, but it is better to be pre-
pared, and I would respectfully urge you to grant my request, and, if
so, that I may have the services of the officer detailed as soon as pos-
sible.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
C1orjps of Engineers.
CHARLESTON, S. C., November 30, 1860.
Col. IR. E. DE RUSSY
L1ommanding Co& of Engineers, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL:- I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
of the 28th instant, and to request that the amount desired from the
Contingencies of fortifications for the repairs of Castle Pinckney
($1,800), for one month, may be placed to my credit with the assistant
treasurer of the United States at Charleston, S. C.
I have entered upon the preliminary arrangements for commencing
work, and on Monday, the 3d of December, shall place in Castle Piuck-
ney the number of men authorized by the Department, with all the nec-
essary arrangememits for subsistence, lodging, & c., so that they may not
leave the work until they are withdrawn.
Major Anderson, at my request, has kindly consented to detail an offi-
cer to assist me until an Engineer officer can be sent me for this purpose,
for I regard it as necessary that an officer shall be constantly I)resent
at this work after the repairs are commenced. Lieut. J. C. Davis is to
be detailed, and is to report to me. I trust, however, that this tempo-
rary detail will not induce any delay in sending me another officer, as
Major Anderson needs the services of all in his command. I shall en-
deavor to have the repairs promptly made, and to secure a proper pro-
tection to the property of time United States. In doing this it will be
indispensable that I have the muen instructed, to a certain extent, in the
service of the guns, and also in time manual of arms, if I can arrange
with Colonel Huger to have the requisite number of muskets sent from
the arsenal. I shall also have Lieut. G. W. Snyder take up his quarters
in Fort Sumter, and give like instructions to about fifty picked men, in
whom I can place reliance in case of an emergency.
I beg you to understand, hoWever, that I do not regard all these arrange-
ments as absolutely demanded by anything that now appears, but rather
as a safe precaution in view of what may appear any (lay, if anythin
Page 81
CHAP. I] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
81
more exciting than usual occurs to stimulate the extremely rash persons
among a community afready sufficiently excited upon the subject of their
State relations.
I think that more troops should have been sent here to guard the
forts, and I believe that no serious demonstration on the part of the
populace would have met such a course. But, as it is decided not to do
this, and to rely instead upon the Engineer employ& ~s for protection ~f
the public property, I shall do everything in my power to carry out this
purpose. 1 shall, of course, exercise the necessary amount of prudence,
and avoid any appearance of arming, as I couceive this to be the wish
of the War Department.
Very respectfully and truly, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain Engineers.
tThdorsement.]
Colonel Cooper says this has been shown to the Secretary of War.
DECEMBER 6, 1860. II. G. W. [WRIGHT.]
No. 3.] FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 1, 1860.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
of the 28th ultimo, and regret that I have to report that things look
more gloomy than the day at the date of my last communication.
Captain Seymour, just returned from the city, reports that the excite-
ment there is very great. Col. E. B. White and other gentlemen, with
whom he conversed, stated that the people of Charleston would not
allow another man or any kind of stores to be landed at or for these
forts. They say that anything which indicates a determination on the
part of the General Government to act with an unusual degree of vigor
in putting these works in a better state of defense will be regarded as
an act of aggression, and will, as well as either of the other acts men-
tioned above, cause an attack to be made on this fort.
Two Charlestonians who were down here to-day remarked to me that
as soon as the State seceded she would demand the surrender of the
forts, and that if not given up, they would be takeu; but that this would
not be done sooner unless some action on the part of the Government
proved that it was preparing to hold possession of them.
The agent of the boat which brought the 24-pounder howitzer and
ammunition is severely censured for having brought them, and the agent
of the steamer James Adger was told that any vessel bringing troops
here would not be safe in this harbor. Since writing the above I have
seen Assistant Surgeon Crawford, who has also been in the city. He
says that never until to-day did he believe that our position was critical.
One of his friends told him that we would have trouble in less than
fifteen days. He thinks that they will first attempt to take Fort Sumter,
which they (justly) say will controf this work. Castle Pinckney they
regard as theirs already. Mr. King, the intendant of this island, told
the doctor that as soon as the act of secession was passed a demand
would be made on me to surrender this fort. All these remarks lead to
the same conclusiona fixed purpose to have these works. The question
for the Government to decideand the sooner it is done the betteris,
6R
Page 82
82 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
whether, when South Carolina secedes, these forts are to be surrendered
or not. If the former, I must be informed of it, and instructed what
course I am to pursue. If the latter be the determination, no time is to
be lost iii either sending troops, as already suggested, or vessels of war
to this harbor. Either of these courses may cause some of the doubting
States to join South Carolina.
I shall go steadily on, preparing for the worst, trusting hopefully in
the God of Battles to guard and guide me in my course. I think it
probable that in the present highly excited state of these people, the
sending of the detachment of Engineer laborers to Castle Pinckney may
bring on that collision which we are so anxious to avoid. I shall con-
sult with Captain Foster on his return to the island, and if convinced
that it will lead to that result, will assume the responsibility of suspend-
ing the execution of that plan for the present. This fort, in consequence
of the unfinished state of our repairs, & c., is not in a condition for
inviting an attack. Captain Seymour says that he is satisfied they
intend erecting a battery on the upper end of this island, to command
the inner channel. I do not know what course to advise. They are
making every preparation (drilling nightly, & c.) for the fight which
they say must take place, and insist on our not doing anything. We
are now certainly too weak to fight. Were we to guard against a
surprise, our men, if surrounded by only an undisciplined mob, would
soon be worn out by fatigue.
I learn from Captain Ord that attempts have been made, by offers of
heavy sums, to induce men at Old Point to join a Southern army. I
have not heard that any attempts have been made to tamper with our
men, who thus far cheerfully perform the arduous and ceaseless duties
imposed upon them in consequence of the smallness of the command.
I ought, perhaps, to mention, as an indication of the expectation of
the citizens of Charleston, that three friends of the ladies of our offi-
cers have within a day or two been pressed most urgently to go to the
city to stay with them there.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, Fir8t Artillery, Commanding.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
December 1, 1860.
Maj. R. ANDERSON:
Sm: Your letter of November 28 has been received. The Secretary
of War has directed Brevet Colonel Huger to repair to this city, as
soon as he can safely leave his post, to return there in a short time.
He desires you to see Colonel Huger, and confer with him prior to his
departure on the matters which have been confided to each of you.
It is believed, from information thought to be reliable, that an attack
will not be made on your command, and the Secretary has only to refer
to his conversation with you, and to caution you that, should his con-
victions unhappily prove untrue, your actions must be such as to be free
from the charge of initiating a collision. If attacked, you are, of course,
expected to defend the trust committed to you to the best of your
ability.
The increase of the force under your command, however much to b
Page 83
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 83
desired, would, the Secretary thinks, judging from the recent excitement
produced on account of an anticipated increase, as mentioned in your
letter, but add to that excitement, and might lead to serious results.
S. COOPER.
No. 4.] FORT MoITLTRJE, S. C., December 2, 1860.
(Received A. G. 0., December 5.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I have seen Captaiu Fos-
ter, and that he says that lie told several gentlemen in Charleston yes-
terday that he intended commencing at once certain repairs at Castle
Pinckney. He is satisfied, from the manner in which his remark was
received, that no offense will be taken at his putting his workmen in
the Castle. I shall, consequently, not interpose any objection to his
(loing so. He has applied to me for an officer to take charge tempo-
rarily of his workmen nutil an Engineer officer can be sent on, and
although I can not very well spare one I shall, in consideration of my
regarding that detachment as really acting the part of an advance
guard for my command, take the responsibility of assigning Lieutenant
Davis to that duty.
Captain l~oster thinks that he will finish the small projection at the
northwest salient of this work tomorrow, and he will then repoint the
walls of this fort (a work very essential) and commence digging a
shallow wet ditch at or near the foot of the wail. The presence of
quicksand prevents his digging a regular ditch, but he can dig one that
will afford such an obstruction as will, with ordinary prec ution, pre-
vent onr works being carried by a rush.
When he has finished these works I shall feel that, by the blessing
of God, even my little command will be enabled to make such a re-
sistance that the authorities of South Carolina will, though they may
surround, hardly venture to attack us. We expect a full snpply of
provisions about the 10th of this month. I trust that such arrange-
ments will be made as will secure their delivery, as well as that of the
supply of ordnance and ordnance stores recently required.
Then, with men merely enough to enable ns to keep up a respectable
guard without wearing our men out, I would, in humble reliance on
Providence, feel ready for any emergency that could reasonably occur.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
CHARLESTON S
Col. R. E. DE RLT~sy, , . C., December 2 1860
Gommanding Corps of Engineers, U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to request that application may be made
to the War Department to have Colonel Huger, Ordnance Corps, issue
to me four boxes of muskets (smooth-bores), with percussion caps for
sixty rounds. Fifty of these muskets are required for Fort Sumter and
fifty for Castle Pinckney. The cartridge boxes and belts are not abso-
lutely necessary, but I would like to have an equal number issued if it
is convenient to do so.
Colonel Huger, whom I consulted upon the subject of the muskets
Page 84
84 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. I.
said he could not issue them without authority from Washington, not
even for the short time that I want them, and I declined at the time
to reqnest him to write for this authority; but after consulting with
Major Anderson to-day we are both agreed that it is best to write for
the requisite authority at once, and I therefore make the above request.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
[Indorsement.]
Handed to Adjutant-General, and by him laid before the Secretary of
War on the 6th of December.
Returned by the Adjutant-General on the 7th. Action deferred for
the present. (See Captain Fosters letter of December 4.)
No. 5.] FORT MOTILTRIE, S. C., December 3, 1860.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U S 4
COLONEL: Captains Doubleday and Seymour said to-day that when
they gave me their opinions a few days ago on the feasibility of secur-
ing reliable men here to perform police and fatigue duty they did not
think of some discharged soldiers, who they now say could be hired for
that purpose. My opinion, as expressed, that I doubted whether any
reliable men could be hired here, was has ed upou their opinions and
upon my knowledge of the deep interest and excitement of the popu-
lace here.
I shall be pleased, then, to receive authority and instructions to em-
ploy eight or ten men for the purposes suggested. This will give one
relief for my guard, garrison, and battery, or interior.
Captain Foster has just reported that he left Lieutenant Davis and
twenty of the detachment of laborers, designed to make repairs in Castle
Pinckney, in that work, with one months supply of provision.
Fourteen men will be added to that party to-morrow. The captain
spoke of his having placed Lieutenant Davis and the party in the Castle
whilst in the city, and he said that there was not the least appearance
of excitement about it.
Lieutenant Davis has been cautioned to act with the greatest discre-
tion and caution.
Hoping that everything may go on smoothly here for some time
longer at least, and assuring you that I shall do everything in my power
to add to the strength of my defenses,
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major of U. S. Army.
CHARLESTON, S. C., December 4, 1860.
Col. R. E. DE Russ~
Commanding Corps of Engineers:
COLONEL: I have been obliged to vary the plan which I indicated in
my last letters as the one I intended to follow in order to carry out the
wishes of the Department concerning the security of the works under my
charge. In consequence of recent developments of the state of feelin
Page 85
CHAr. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 85
among my men, I do not now judge it proper to give them any military
instruction, or to place arms in their hands; at least this is the case
with reference to the men at Fort Sumter. I do not think that any of
them will go so far in the defense of public property as to fight an armed
body of the citizens of this State. I ascertained this for the first time,
to-day, of the men in Fort Sumter, where I had been confident that I
could rely in any emergency, at least upon the Baltimore mechanics,
about fifty iu number.
But the overseer ascertained last night that they were disinclined to
use force to resist an attempt to seize the fort on the part of the citizen
soldiers of the State, although willing to resist a mob. The men in
Castle Pinckney, placed there as I intended, on the 3d instant, being
picked men, may prove more reliable. But the feeling here in regard
to secession is become so strong that almost all are entirely influenced
by it. I therefore judge it best to suspend all idea of arming them at
present. I may mention that I exercised as much care as possible in
placing this working party in Castle Pinckney, so as not to give cause
for apprehension of arming to the citizens. The greatest prudence was
exercised, and the best men placed there, under charge of a prudent and
reliable officer, Lieutenant Davis. Every precaution is also taken at
Fort Sumter, where Lieutenant Snyder has taken up his quarters. Hav-
ing done thus much, which is all I can do iu this respect, I feel that I
have done my duty, and that if any overt act takes place, no blame can
properly attach to me. I regret, however, that sufficient soldiers are
not in this harbor to garrison these two works. The Government will
soon have to decide the question whether to maintain them or to give
them up to South Carolina. If it be decided to maintain them, troops
must instantly be sent, and in large numbers. If it be decided to give
them up, the present arrangement will answer very well, only I should
be ii~forined, in order that I may know how to act.
At present I have given orders to Lieutenants Snyder and Davis to
resist to the utmost any attempt or any demand on the forts in which
they are stationed.
The plan of the leaders in this State appears to be, from all that I
can see and hear, first, to demand the forts of the General Government,
after secession, and then,ifrefused, to take them by force of arms. A
quite large party is in favor of not waiting to ask the General Govern-
ment, but to summon the immediate commanders, and, if refused, to
attack at once. All of this is not, of course, strictly in the line of my
profession; still, I judge it proper to write you fully and plainly, so that
you may know exactly how we are placed. Here in Fort Moultrie the
two companies of the garrison having dwindled to half their proper size,
are so weak that Major Anderson demands all the auxiliary defense
that I can give him. I am now digging a wet ditch around the work,
which, although necessarily shallow from the quicksand, will more than
double the difficulty of scaling the walls. The major also requires a
fraise to be placed around the coping, but I cannot commence it until I
finish the work in hand.
I shall to-morrow complete the cut at the northwest angle, which
I have enlarged somewhat in the form of a bastionette, by building
straight np from the foundation a wall at the angle, extending ten
feet froni the angle on each face, and then uniting by oblique returns
with the very sloping face of the scarp wall. This gives a very excel-
lent position for four or more muskets, to flank the west face of the
work. The marginal sketch gives an imperfect idea of it. It is singu-
lar that a small cut, as indicated on the map in the Engineer Office
Page 86
86 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
was originally built at this angle, but subsequently, and apparently not
many years since, destroyed by breaking off the npper part of the side
walls, throwing the d~bris into the cut, and covering the parapet over
it. I completed to-day the bastionette at the southwest angle, except
the embrasures, the stones and some of the irons for which have not
yet been received. Before taking down the temporary bastionette at the
southeast angle and commencing the permanent one, I shall, for the
greater security of the small garrison, run out a woodeu macbicoulis
gallery over the angle of the wall, and also complete the pointing of all
large crevices in the scarp.
The posterns on the east and west curtains have been bricked up at
Major Andersons request, as he felt too weak to use them for sorties,
and as the doors might be burst in, both the iron and wood work being
old and defective.
I have been liberal of assistance in increasing the defensive capaci-
ties of the fort, for I felt that the necessity required it. I have abont
125 men at work here now, and shall coutinue the same number for two
or three days, until I complete the ditch. On Fort Sumter I have
about 115, and at Castle Pinckney 30, makiug a total of 260 men em-
ployed. The first of the emubrasure stones for Fort Sumter having been
received, the embrasures of the second tier will be immediately com-
menced.
Very respectfully, yours, ~ ~. FOSTER,
Gaptain of Engineers.
ORDNANCE OFFICE,
Washington, December 5, 1860.
Hon. JOHN B. FLOYD,
Secretary of War:
Sin: In answer to your inquiry respecting a rumor or report of the
recent landing at Fort Moultrie, S. C., of a large quantity of military
stores, such as cannon and boxes of ammunition, I have to state that
the rumor or report has no just foundation in fact. The only cannon or
ammnnition, excepting a few primers, which have been ordered to Fort
Moultrie since September, 1859, were four small flank howitzers ~vith
their carriages and implements, and one hundred canisters and twenty-
five shells for each. These supplies were furnished on requisition from
the Engineer Department of 16th October, 1860, as part of the regular
armament of the fort, for the flanking capon~eres, which were just
finished and ready to receive them. They were ordered from th
Page 87
CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 87
arsenals on the 20th October, 1860, but, being delayed in their issue and
shipment, did not reach their destination till recently.
iRespectfally, your obedient servant,
WM. MAYXADJER,.
Captain of Ordnance.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, December 6, 1860.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: Your letter of the 30th ultimo has been received and laid
before the Secretary of War for his information.
An additional officer [Lieutenant Meade] as an assistant at Castle
Pinckney has been aetailed, as you have been already informed by letter
of the 5th instant.
Application has been made for a remittance of ~1,8G0 from the Con-
tingencies of fortfflcations,~ to be applied to the purposes of Castle
Piuckney; but in the preseut low state of the Treasury it may be some
time before it can be placed to your credit, though the amount is prom-
ised by the Treasury Department with the least practicable delay.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. G. WRIGHT,
Captain of Engineers, in charge.
No. 6.] FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 6, 1860.
(Received A. G. 0., December 10.)
Col. S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, on the 4th,
of your communication of the 1st instant. In compliance therewith I
went yesterday to the city of Charleston to confer with Colonel Huger,
and I called with him upon the mayor of the city, and upon several
other prominent citizens.
All seemed determined, as far as thefr influence or power extends, to
prevent an attack by a mob on our fort; but all are equally decided in
the opinion that the forts must be theirs after secession.
I shall, nevertheless, knowing how excitable this community is, con-
tinue to keep on the qui vive, and, as far as in my power, steadily pre-
pare my command to the uttermost to resist any attack that may be
made. As the State will probably declare itself out of the Union in
less than two weeks, it seems to me that it would be well to discontinue
all engineering work on this fort except such as is necessary to increase
its strength. I have not pretended to exercise any control over that
(iepartment, and have found Captain Foster generally disposed to accede
to the suggestions I have ventured to make~ and the suggestions I
now make are not made in any unkind spirit towards him, as he is com-
pelled to carry out the instructions of his department, but such as I feel
it my duty to make, as being held responsible for the defense of this
work. One of the bastionettes is nearly completed, now a waiting the
arri~a1 of the piutle blocks, without which the embrasure cannot b
Page 88
88 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
made. The foundation has only been laid for the other. I certainly
think that it is now too late to begin the construction of the second one,
and that it would be better to substitute some other flanking arrange-
meut~ which can be finished in a few days.
Captain Foster is now sodding the exterior slope of the ditch, and
putting it uck on the glacis. It seems to me that that work had better
be discontinued, and the planking, & c., removed, as it might be used by
an investing or attacking force.
In other words, I would now apply our science to devising and placing
in front of and on our walls every available means of embarrassing and
preventing an enemy scaling onr low walls. Anything that will obstruct
his advance will be of great advantage to our weak garrison.
Our time is short enough for what we have to do. Should the ord-
nance stores I have called for or re-euforcements not arrive, in the event
of our being attacked I fear that we shall not distinguish ourselves by
holding out many days.
I have not yet commenced leveling oft the sand hills which, within
on~ hundred and sixty yards to the east, command this fort. Would
my doing this be construed into initiating a collision l I would thank
you also to inform me under what circumstances I would be justified in
setting fire to or destroying the houses which afford daugerous shelter
to an enemy, and whether I would be justified in firing upon an armed
body which may be seen approaching our works.
Captain Foster told me yesterday that he found that the men of his
Fort Sumter force, who he thought were perfectly reliable, will not fight
if an armed for& ~e approaches that work; and I fear that the same may
be anticipated from the Castle Pinckney force.
I learn that in consequence of the decayed condition of the carriages
at Fort Sumter, the guns have not been mounted there as I reported
they were to have been. If that work is not to be garrisoned, the guns
certainly ought not to be mounted, as they may be turned upon us.
The remark has, I hear, been repeatedly made in the city that if
they need heavy guns, they can get them in forty-eight hours. This, I
suppose, refers to their being able to bring them from Fort Pulaski,
mouth of the Savannah River.
Colonel Huger designs, I think, leaviflg Charleston for Washington
to-morrow night. He is more hopeful of a settlement of impending
difficulties without bloodshed than I am. Hoping in God that he may
be right in his opinion
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
December 6, 1860.
Maj. R. ANDERSON,
U. S. Army, Fort Moultrie, Charleston, S. C.:
MAJOR: Your letter of the 3d instant, in relation to police, has been
received; is approved by the Secretary of War to the extent you desire.
I am, & c.,
S. COOPER, Adjutant-General
Page 89
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 89
No. 7.] FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 9, 1860.
(iReceived A. G. 0., December 12.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General:
[SIn:] I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 6th instant, and to state that I have directed the A. A. Q. M. to hire
men to perform police and fatigue duty at this post, and to send on a
special estimate for funds to pay them.
I hear that the attention of the South Carolinians appears to be turned
more toward Fort Sumter than it was, and it is deemed probable that
their first act will be to take possession of that work.
The idea of attempting to take this place by a coup de main appears
not to be so favorably regarded as it was, and they will perhaps deter-
mine to besiege us. To enable them to do this they must procure heavy
guns, which they can get (if not from Fort Sumter and Castle Piuckney)
from Pnlaski or some other southern fort. Anything that can be done
which will cause delay in their attack will give time for deliberation
and negotiation, and may, by Gods blessing, save the shedding of blood.
I would therefore respectfully suggest whether it might not be advisa-
ble and prudent to cause the ammunition, except what may be needed
for the defense of this fort and the armament of Fort Sumter and Castle
Pinckney, to be destroyed or rendered unserviceable before they are
permitted to fall into their hands. The same may be advisable at those
forts from whence supplies might be brought to Charleston. Fort
Sumter is a tempting prize, the value of which is veil known to the Charles-
tonians, and once in their possession, with its ammunition and arma-
ment and walls uninjured and garrisoned properly, it would set our
Navy at defiance, compel me to abandon this work, and give them the
perfect command of this harbor.
Captain Foster having received the pintle stones for his bastionette
guns, will now finish the one he has been at work on. Our supply of
provisions has not arrived. I hope that it will soon be in. If we do
not hear of it in a few days, I shall have to direct the A. A. commis-
sary to make some purchases in Charleston.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, Fzrst Artillery, Commanding.
FORT MOULTRIE, S C, December 11, 1860.
Memorandum of verbal instructions to Major Anderson, First Artillery,
commanding at Fort Moultrie, S. C.
You are aware of the great anxiety of the Secretary of War that a
collision of the troops with the people of this State shall be avoided,
and of his studied determination to pursue a course with reference to
the military force and forts in this harbor which shall guard against
such a collision He has therefore carefully abstained from increasing
the force at this point, or taking any measures which might add to the
present excited state of the public mind, or which would throw any
doubt on the confidence he feels that South Carolina will not attempt,
by violence, to obtain possession of the public works or interfere with
their occupancy. But as the counsel and acts of rash and impulsive
persons may possibly disappoint those expectations of the Government,
he deems it proper that you. should be prepared with instructions t
Page 90
90 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
meet so unhappy a contingency. He has therefore directed me ver-
bally to give you such instructions.*
You are carefully to avoid every act which would needlessly tend to
provoke aggression; and for that reason you are not, without evident
and imminent necessity, to take up any position which could be con-
strued into the assumption of a hostile attitude. But you are to hold
possession of the forts in this harbor, and if attacked you are to defend
yourself to the last extremity. The smallness of your force will not
permit you, perhaps, to occupy more thau one of the three forts, but
an attack on or attempt to take possession of ally one of them will be
regarded as an act of hostility, and you may then put your command
into either of them which you may deem most proper to increase its
power of resistance. You are also authorized to take similar steps when-
ever you have tangible evidence of a design to proceed to a hostile act.
D. C. BUELL,
Assistant A.ijjutant- General.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, December 12, 1860.
Capt. J. (1. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: In compliance with request communicated by your letter of the
8th instant, application has been made for $5,000, to be remitted to the
assistant treasurer at Charleston, to be held subject to your check, and
that amount will be charged to you on account of Fort Sumter.
The Secretary of the Treasury is, of course, fully informed as to the
amount of funds in each of the Government depositories, and the Be-
l)artment cannot, therefore, with proper courtesy to him, urge a remit-
tance to you on the ground that there are funds at Charleston while he,
with the fullest knowledge of all the facts, and of other public wants,
declines to draw on them.
A special application in your behalf for $1,800 from Contingencies of
fortifications has already been made at the Treasury, without other result
than an assurance that that amount would be sent to you if practicable,
and nothing more can now be done than issue the usual request for the
$5,000 last asked for.
Congress, it is hoped, will very soon adopt some means of relief for the
present condition of things, and no doubt is entertained that all demands
upon the Treasury which are now in suspense will then be met with the
least possible delay.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
11. E. DE RUSSY
Lieutenant- Colonel, Engineers, Commanding.
FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 13, 1860.
Col. 11. E. BE EUSSY,
Commanding Corps of Engineers, & c.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that Lient. 11. K. Meade,
Corps of Engineers, reported to me for duty on the 10th instant. I
* See also Floyd to Anderson, December 21, 1860, and Holt to Anderson, February 23,
1861, post
Page 91
CHAP. Li
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 91
l)laced him in charge of Castle Pinckney the next day, and relieved
Lient. J. C. Davis from his temporary duty at that post. The work at
the Castle is progressing satisfactorily at present, although I have up to
this time beeu delayed on account of one firm in town refusing to sell
me, as the agent of the United States, some lumber, which I was expect-
ing, and very much needed. I have made arrangements to obtain the
requisite quantity of lumber elsewhere, and have transferred the bricks
and cement from Fort Sumter. The work ou the cistern is already com-
menced, and that on the wooden banquettes will commence to-morrow.
In the mean time, while waiting for materials, the force has been em-
ployed in perfecting the messing arrangements, putting the fort in thor-
ough police order, and oiling and working the gun carriages, so that they
now move with perfect facility.
The men for this working party were picked, and the majority of
them are reliable against the disorderly attack of any mob to possess
itself of the work. My confidence in them has increased within a few
days.
A strict night watch is maintained, and during the daytime a man
stands at the gate to prevent interested persons entering and inspect-
ing the fort and its arrangements for defense. This latter precaution I
have lound to be necessary on account of numbers of men connected
with the military, who came for the purpose of obtaining knowledge
to use against the defonuers of the fort in case of a collision with the
Government. I have given the same instructions to Lieutenant Snyder,
at Fort Sumter, with reference to which the above precaution became
necessary first.
At Fort Sumter everything is going on smoothly, although I have
purposely delayed the mounting of the guns, for the reason that I did
not consider it safe to proceed with that work until some definite idea
was obtained as to whether the work was to be maintained or not.
Consequently, only the guns of the left face, which do not bear towards
Fort Moultrie directly, are mounted in the first tier, although every
preparation is made to mount all the guns in the shortest possible time
when it is necessary and safe so to do.
I think the temper and disposition of the men at Fort Sumter are
very goodbetter than a few days ago. They will defend the foi~t, as
far as possible, without arms, against a mob, but not against the organ-
ized forces of South Carolina.
I have endeavored to strengthen the conservative feeling among the
men through the overseer, and have succeeded to a certain extent, and
I now consider this fort and Castle Piuckney safe until it comes to the
s(,lution of the question whether the Government is to surrender them
to the State or to refuse her demands. At that time only United
States troops, and in good numbers, will be sufficiem4 to overawe an
attempt to take them by force.
I hope the Department will not think me too explicit In my terms,for
I wish to avoid any unnecessary alarm, but I feel it my duty to state my
convictions, in order that it may have full information for its action. I
would respectfully, but strongly, urge that more definite instructions be
given me for my guidance. If Fort Sumter is to be risked against
the chances of an attack, it will be important to vary my programme,
and to change the deposit of a large portion of its stores and
for the exigency of its loss. If not, I will cheerfully , to provide
prepare to defend
it to extremity until troops arrive for its garrison. If the garrison in
Fort Moultrie is to be transferred, I should know it, in order to stop the
heavy expense at Fort Moultrie, which, in that case, will become u
Page 92
92
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CnAL. I.
necessary, and which is now fast consuming my available funds. I can
also, in that case, proceed in the armament of Fort Sumter.
At Fort Moultrie I have continued my heavy operations, and have
employed one hundred and twenty men. The accessory defenses that
I have created and am now perfecting are very important to the defense,
and I trust the Department will approve my action. They comprise,
besides the works ordered by the Department, the formation of a wet
ditch, fifteen feet wide, all around the fort, the depth of which is very
small in consequence of the quicksand which is reached, but which
is very yielding to pressure, like a quagmire, and, therefore, a good
obstacle; the construction of a picket fence all around the fort border-
ing the ditch, and protected from fire by a small glacis in front of it;
the cutting off the projecting brick cordon, which might serve to aid
in scaling the oblique face of the wall; the formation of a bastionette
at the northwest angle, so as to obtain a more effective flanking fire
than could be obtained by a small cut in the parapet, and the formation
of a temporary machicoulis gallery at the southeast angle.
All of these auxiliary defenses, except the picket fence, will be com-
pleted in four days, and will vastly improve the chances for the defense.
With a sufficient war garrison I would consider this fort as secure against
any attack that this State can bring against it; but the garrison is a
mere handful of sixty men, and can hardly spare five men to two flank-
ing caponieresa fact that has influenced me in forming the machicoulis
gallery at the southeast angle, as this cau be defended and the wall
flanked by two or three men, who can also be ready to rally to any
point with the rest of the garrison.
In fine, I have spared no pains to give every assistance to the defense.
I declined to make a fraise around the coping, for the reason that its
effect would be to diminish the width of the wet ditch, since the same
length of ladder that would catch on the points and enable the assailar~ts
to mount would not otherwise strike the wall more than half the way
up. If time spares I shall widen the ditch one or two feet and plant
small pickets within it.
I have saved all my cement barrels to be used in forming merlons,
if necessary, and some of them are now being used by the garrison on
the east front, facing the sand hills, to form covers for a few sharpshooters
upon the parapet.
I hope funds will soon be sent me for the present month. I should
think the United States Treasurer could issue his warrant against the
deposit in Charleston for what money I require, for the assistant treas-
urer, Mr. Pressley, informed me that he had ample funds in hand.
I exchanged a draft on New York for gold to-day, in order to pay the
men on Fort Sumter. The bank made the exchange at par.
Very respectfully and truly,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
Washington, December 14, 1860.
Major ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Gommanding Fort ]Iifoultrie, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: The Secretary of War directs me to give the following answers
to certain questions contained in your late letters:
If the State authorities demand any of Captain Fosters workme
Page 93
Cw& r. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 93
on the ground of their being enrolled into the service of the State,
and the subject is referred to you, you will, after fully satisfying your-
self that the men are subject to enrollment, and have been properly
enrolled under the laws of the United States, and of the State of South
Carolina, cause them to be delivered up or suffer them to depart.
If deemed essential to the more perfect defense of the work, the level-
ing of the sand hills which command the fort would not, under ordinary
circumstances, be considered as initiating a collision. But the delicate
question of its bearing on the popular mind, in its present excited state,
demands the coolest and wisest judgment. The fact of the sand hills
being private property, and, as is understood, having private residences
built upon them, decides the question in the negative. The houses
which might afford dangerous shelter to an enemy, being chiefly frame,
could be destroyed by the heavy guns of the fort at any moment, while
the fact of their being leveled in anticipation of an attack might betray
distrust, and prematurely bring on a collision. Their destruction at the
moment of being used as a cover for an enemy would be more fatal to
the attacking force than if swept away before their approach.
An armed body, approaching for hostile purposes, would, in all prob-
ability, either attempt a surprise or send a summons to surrender. In
the former case, there can be no doubt as to the course to be pursued.
In the latter case, after refusal to surrender and a warning to keep
off a further advance by the armed body would be initiating a collision
on their part.
If no summons be made by them, their purpose should be demanded
at the same time that they are warned to keep off, and their failure to
answer and further advance would throw the responsibility upon them.
I am, & c.,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General.
FORT MOULTRIE, S. C.,
Friday, December 14, 1860.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
IDEAR COLONEL: I inclose herewith a slip from the Charleston Mer-
cury of 13th instant, mentioning from Washington correspondent Major
Bells [Buells] mission to this place.
I told the major that it was likely they would get an inkling of it.
I merely send this to show you the almost impossibility of keeping
anything secret. Nothing here worthy of an official a calm before
the storm. Many think no attack will be made on me until after they
are in position in Fort Sumter, and that they will drive me out with
her guns. It is all conjecture. I shall, of course, prepare here for the
worst.
All well and in fine spirits.
Yours, truly,
ROBERT ANDERSON.
[Inclosure.l
FROM wASHINGTON.
WASHINGTON, December 10.
Mr. EDITOR: A caucus was held here a few nights since of Senators and Represent-
atives from the cotton States. it numbered about twenty-six, and represented the
States of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida
Page 94
94 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. (CHAP. L
and North Carolina, and upon the question of the necessity of the immediate secessufl
of South Carolina there was not a dissenting voice.
Major Bell [Buell] and several other officers of the Army have heen sent to Fort
Moultrie to look after the forts and keep a sharp lookout upon them. They were
sent for no good to ns. See that they make no change in the distribution of soldiers,
so as to put them all in Fort Sumter. That would be dangerous to us.
Yours,
CHARLES.
CO1~nrITTEE ON MILITARY AFFAIRS,
December [18], 1860.
Hon. J. B. FLOYD:
SIR: You will oblige me very much by furnishing me the information
asked for iu the inclosed resolution. I should think myself derelict in
my duty to the House and the country if I did not, in the present peril-
ous condition of the country, obtain all the information in my power in
relation to its military defenses. The House may call on inc any day,
as the organ of the Military Committee, for information, and I feel very
anxious to be put in possession of reliable information on the subject.*
Very respectfully, yours, & c.,
B. STANTON.
[Inelosure.]
Resolution adopted by the Co imittee on Military Affairs of the House of Representatives,
December 18, 1860.
Resolved, That the Secretary of War be requested to furnish the Committee on Mili-
tary Affairs of the House of Representatives with a statement of the condition of the
defenses at Fort Moultrie, Castle Piuckney, and Fort Sumter, the nu~ her of men, and
the quantity and description of ordnance and arms in each; also, the number and
description of arms in the Charleston Arsenal, and what officer has charge of the
custody and control of said arsenal, and what force he has under his control to enable
him to protect and defend it; als , what number and description of arms has been
distributed since the ~st day of January, A. D. 1860, and to whom, and at what price,
so far as in his judgment may he compatible with the public welfare.
A true copy from the journal of the committee.
J. J. COOMBS, Clerk.
No. 8.] FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 18, 1860.
(Received A. G. 0., iDecember 21.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
of the 14th instant, giving answers to questions contained in my letters.
In reference to the instruction given me in reply to my question
about Captain Fosters men, it would appear that I had not stated the
matter with sufficient distinctness.
As I understood it, the South Carolina authorities sought to enroll as
a part of their army intended to act against the forces of the United
States, men who are employed by and in the pay of that Government,
and could not, as I conceived, he enrolled by South Carolina under
the laws of the United States and of the State of South Carolina.
The sand hills reft~rred to are private property, but no houses are
built upon them; they are in front of or between houses. I, of course,
shall not remove them until convinced that an attack will be made, nor
* See De Riissy to Floyd, December 20, 1860; Maynadier to Floyd, December 21,
1860; Holt to Stanton, January 3, 1861, post
Page 95
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
95
shall T resort to the extreme measure of burning or destroying houses
except on the same assurance, and theu only such as mask positions
where batteries may be erected, or such as, in my opiuion, cannot be
permitted to remain without endangering my command, which is so
small that I cannot afford to spare a man.
The sand hills and the houses surrounding the fort will afford safe
shelter for sharpshooters, who may, with ordinary good luck, pick off
the major part of my little band, if we stand to our guns, in a few hours.
We are busily at work erecting traverses, defilading our work, in-
creasiug the height of our walls, and securing protection for our men
and guns by means of barrels filled with sand.
As Captaiu Foster tells me that he reports all his operations to the
Engineer Department, I presume that the War Department is fully
informed on these matters.
As the subject may be referred to by the letter writers and by the
Charleston press, it may be proper that I should state that Captain
Foster mentioned to me this morning that he had obtained yesterday
from the Charleston Arsenal forty muskets for Fort Sumter and Castle
Pinckney, and that they had been brought down without causing any
excitement. He said that they were delivered in compliance with an
order issued, I think, before my arrival. This evening he showed me
a letter from the military storekeeper, which stated that the fact of his
having sent off those muskets had produced great excitement in the
city, and that he had felt obliged to pledge his word that they should
be returned by to-morrow night. He states that Colonel Huger had
directed him not to let any arms be removed from the arsenal.
I told Captain Foster that my instructions were that I was not to do
anything calculated to produce excitement, and that as he had asked
my advice I would certainly advise him to return them. He left me
stating that he would do so.
I have not hear(L whether the ordnance stores asked for are to be
sent. I can only say that they are absolutely necessary to enable me
to make a respectable attempt at a defense.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Gommanding.
FORT MOULmIE, S. C., December 18, 1860.
Col. R. E. DE Russy,
Gommanding Gorps of Engineers, U. S. Army, Washington, D. 0.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to inclose two letters received to-day
from F. C. Humphreys, esq., military storekeeper at the Charleston
Arsenal.
The first accompanied an invoice of forty muskets and accouterments,
upon a requisition made by me, and in accordance with an order received
some time since. The second was made subsequent to intimations of
violent demonstrations, made by General Seinierle (and others, per-
haps), if the muskets were not returned. General Selinierle assured Mr.
Humphreys that Colonel Huger, Ordnance Corps, U. S. Army, had as-
sured the governor of the State that no arms should be removed from
the arsenal, and upon this Mr. Huinphreys assured General Schnierle
that the muskets should be returned to-morrow.
Now, I have no official knowledge (or positive personal evidence,
either) that Colonel Huger assured the governor that no arms should b
Page 96
96 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. I.
removed from the arsenal, nor that, if lie did so, he spoke by authority
of the Government; but, on the other hand, 1 do know that an order
was given to issue to me forty mnskets; that I actually needed them to
protect Government property and the lives of my assistants and the
ordnance sergeants under them at Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney,
and that I have them in my possession. To give them up on a demand
of this kind seems to me as an act not expected of me by the Govern-
ment, and as almost suicidal nnder the circumstances. It would place
the two forts nnder my charge at the mercy of a mob. Neither of the
ordnance sergeants at Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney had muskets
until I got these, and Lieutenants Snyder and Meade were likewise
totally destitute of arms.
I propose to refer the matter to Washington, and am to see several
gentlemen who are prominent in this matter to-morrow. I am not dis-
posed to surrender these arms nnder a threat of this kind, especially
when I know that I am only doing my duty to the Government. If the
violent persons in the city seize upon this opportunity to excite the mob
to acts of violence to the property of the United States, or those having
it in charge, it will only be as that which must soon occur, and which
they have actually been looking for.
I must say ~)lainly that I have for some days arrived at the conclusion
that unless some arrangement is shortly made by Congress, afflAirs in
this State will arrive at a crisis, and a conflict between the Federal
forces and the troops of this State be a not improbable event.
I have endeavored to keep you fully informed of my efforts to prepare
for it, and of this I will write more fully to-morrow.
Yery respectfully, yours,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
[Inclosure No. 1.J
CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C.,
December 18, 1860.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER,
U. S. Engineer Corps, Sullivans Island, S. C.~
DEAR CAPTAIN: The shipment of the forty muskets, & c., has caused
intense excitement. General Schuierle called upon me this morning,
and assures me that some violent demonstration is certain unless the
excitement cau be allayed, and says that Colonel Huger assured the
governor that no arms should bc removed from this arsenal. As the
order under which I made tim issue to you was dated prior to Colonel
Hugers visit here, I am placed in rather a delicate l)ositiOmi. I have
pledged my word that they (the forty muskets and accouterments) shall
be returned by to-morrow night, and I beg that you will return them to
me. I informed General Schuierle that you only desired two muskets, but
that I could not issue them without the proper order, but that I had an
old order covering the issue of the forty. In view of my pledge that
the muskets shall be returned, amid the position which Colonel Huger is
placed by the issue, I feel satisfied that you will comply with my request.
In haste.
Yery truly, yours, F. C. HUMPHREYS,
Military Storekeeper Ordnance, U. S. Army
Page 97
CHAP. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 97
[Inclosure No. 2.1
FORT MOULTRIE, December 18, 1860.
F. C. HUMPUREYS, Esq.,
Military Storekeeper, Charleston Arsenal:
DEAR SIR: I have received your note of this date, begging me to
return to the arsenal the forty muskets which I obtained yesterday (iu
accordance with an order from the Ordnance Department, issued some
time since), because of a threatened violent demonstration on the part
of some persons of Charleston. You state that Colonel Huger, of the
Ordnance (as General Schuierle asserts to you), assured the governor
that no arms should be removed from the arsenal, and that as the above
assurance of Colonel Huger was made subsequent to the receipt of the
order for the issue of these muskets to me, you have pledged your word
that they shall be returned to the arsenal to-morrow. If Colonel Huger
made this pledge to the governor of this State, I presume he must have
actedbytheauthorityoftheGovernment; butofthislhavenodirect
knowledge. All I know is that an order was given to issue forty mus-
kets to me, that I actually required them to protect the property of the
Government against a mob, and that I have them in my possession. To
give them back now, without proper authority, would subject me to
blame if any loss should occur which might be prevented by keeping
them. I am willing to refer the matter to Washington. I am sorry to
be obliged to disappoint you, and will call to assure you so to-morrow at
12 oclock, at which time I shall be happy to meet General Schuierle, if
he is disposed to see me.
Very truly, yours,
J. G. FOSTER
Captain of ingineers.
FORT MOULTRIE, ~. C., December 19, 1860.
Col. H. E. DE HUSSY,
Commanding Corps of Engineers, U. AS. Army, Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that I had an interview
to-day with General Schnierle (general of division in this .yicinity) and
several other prominent citizens of Charleston, in relation to the little
excitement attending the issue of forty muskets to me at the arsenal on
the 17th instant.
The main facts connected with this were communicated in my letter
of yesterday.
The interview to-day was satisfactory to me, as I saw that the action
of General Schnierle had arisen from his great desire to allay the tem-
porary excitement among some of the citizens. Although I declined to
return the muskets until I was directed by the Government so to do,
yet I proposed at once to refer the matter to Washington, and accord-
ingly telegraphed to Captain Maynadier, Ordnance Corps, to inquire
whether the muskets should be returned to the arsenal or not. Up to
this time I have received no answer. The reasons for my doing so are
these: General Schnierle asserted that Colonel Huger had assured the
governor of this State that no arms should be removed from the arsenal,
and Captain llumphreys, military storekeeper, felt himself placed in a
peculiar position from having acted contrary to the colonels assurance,
while on the other hand neither Captain llumphreys or myself had been
informed by Colonel Huger that he had. made such assurance; neither
had we any positive written testimony of the fact. To solve the ques-
7R
Page 98
98 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
tion, the Ordnance Bureau must be appealed to for a decision, an4 I did
this immediately, in order to allay, as soon as possible, any irritations
that might have arisen. I was actuated in all I did by a sincere desire
to remove all cause of irritation, so that if the extremists are disposed
for violent measures they must force the issue themselves.
I am abating nothing of the activity of preparation in Fort Moultrie
and Fort Sumter, and in f~ict am increasing it.
If the Department becomes aware of any change of policy in regard
to this preparation in these forts, or in either of them, I beg that instruc-
tions may be given me at once, so that I may vary my operations accord-
ingly, for my present expenses are very heavy. In Fort Sumter the
mounting of the gnus, laying a flagging of first and second tiers of case-
mates, forming embrasures of second tier, and finishing the barracks
is progressing regularly, and as fast as separately-organized parties can
work. The force will be to-morrow 150 men.
Ou Fort Moultrie 137 men are at work. The wet ditch is nearly com-
pleted. The foot-bridge connecting the second stories of the barracks
and the guard-house, which is arranged for a citadel, is constructed.
Doors are being cut through the partition walls of the barracks of the
second floor, and trap-doors in the floors, and ladders made. A machi-
coulis gallery over the southeast angle is being made of palmetto logs
for infantry. All the guns on the east front (facing the sand hills) are
being l)laced in embrasure, by raising high and solid merlons, formed of
cement barrels lillecI with sand, sods, and green hides.
Three high cavalier -like positions are also formed on this front for
sharpshooters. The picket fence bordering the ditch is carried more
than half around the fort, and is well protected from a destructive fire
of cannon by a small glacis in front of it. The flanking howitzers are
being mounted in the finished caponiere, and will be tried by firing to-
morrow. Nearly all the projecting brick cordon is cut off smooth.
All of this work I have done and am doing myself, because it is neces-
sary to be done, and the garrison is too weak to undertake any work
beside the regular drills.
There is another thing which I propose to do, and of which I write to
you in season, so that if you disapprove it you can have time to for-
bid it. I propose to connect a powerful Daniels battery with the maga-
zine at Fort Sumter, by means of wires stretched across nuder water
from Fort Sumter to Fort Moultrie, and to blow up Fort Sumter if it is
taken by an armed force, and after Lieutenant Snyder and my men have
time to escape from it.
I propose,also~touse the same battery to fire small mines around
Fort Moultrie, and to explode a large mine placed in the sand hills. All
of these last preparations may seem to be unnecessary, and I hope they
may prove to be so in the end, but there are very strong probabilities
that they may be required, and, at any rate, I regard a complete state -
of preparations as the snrest safeguard against attack.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTEI~,
Gaptain, Engineers.
DECEMBER 19, 1860.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSOX, d~c, Charleston, S. C.:
I have just telegraphed Captain Foster to return any arms that he
may have removedfrom~Charleston Arsenal.
J. B. FLOYD
Page 99
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 99
No. 9.] FORT MOIJLTRIErS. C., December 20, 1860.
(Received A. G. 0., December 24.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-aeneral:
COLONEL: I had the honor to receive and to answer, at half past 1
oclock this morning, a telegram from the honorable Secretary of War,
dated the 19th instant. Captain Foster has, I presume, reported to the
Department his compliance with his order.
The ordinance of secession passed the South Carolina Convention
to-day.
We are making good progress in our defensive works on the ram-
parts. Captain Foster finished to-day mounting the guns in the
caponiere (or bastionettes), and [will] commence the other caponiere
to-morrow. In my letter (No. 6) of December 6, I had the honor of
stating my objections to commenchiig that work, and suggested that I
thought it ought to be replaced by some work which could be built iu a
shorter time. No reply has been made to that suggestion, and Captain
Foster says that as the project was approved by the Engineer Depart-
ment and l)y the Secretary of War he does not feel authorized to make
a change of the plan.
I regret this very much, for if an attack is made whilst that work is
going on, our fort can be very easily carried. As I have stated before,
I do not feel authorized to interfere with the operations of the Engineer
Department.
Captain Foster informs me that Lieutenant Snyder is mounting guns
at Fort Sumter as rapidly as possible. I have already given my reasons
why Jthoughtthatoughtnottobedone,andhave seen no reason for
changing that opinion.
hoping that events may take such a turn as soon to relieve me from
the dangerous position my little command is now in,
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, December 20, 1860.
Hon. JOHN B. FLOYD,
& cretary of War:
SiR: In reply to so much of the resolution of the Committee on Mili-
tary Affairs of the House of Representatives, * which you have referred
to this office, as relates to matters intrusted to this Department, I have
the honor to present the following report:
In regard to the condition of the defenses at Fort Moultrie, I have to
state that, according to the latest report of the Engineer officer having
charge of the construction of the defenses of the harbor of Charleston,
everything practicable has been done to place the work in an efficient
condition, and that with a proper garrison it is susceptible of an ener-
getic defense. There were then employed at that work one officer and
one hundred and twenty workmen, independent of the regular garrison.
Castle Pinckney was in good condition as regards preparation, and,
with a proper garrison, as defensible as it can be made. One officer
and thirty workmen were engaged in the repair of the cisterns, replac-
ing decayed banquettes, and attending to other matters of detaiL
See Stanton to Floyd, December 18, 1860, p. 94; and Holt to Stanton, January 3,
1, POSt
Page 100
100 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
Fort Sumter, which is entirely surrounded by water, is preparcd for
the guns of the first and third tiers, many of which are mounted, and
the re:;t may be on short notice. The working force is now engage(l in
putting in the embrasures of the second tier, which have been left out
till recently on account of an apprehended settlement of the work. One
officer and one hundred and fifteen workmen were employed at this work
at the date of the last report. Of all the fortifications in the harbor of
Charleston, Fort Sumter must be looked upon as by far the most im-
portant, and it is now in condition, as regards its state of preparation,
to resist any attack that will be made upon it, provided it be furnished
ivith a proper garrison.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
li. E. DE IRUSSY,
Lieutenant (olonel, Engineers, Commanding.
FORT MOULTRIE, SULLIVANS ISLAND, S. C.,
December 20, 1860.
Col. IR. E. DE RUSSY,
Commanding Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army, Washington, D. 0.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that, after closing my letter
to you last night, I received (at 2 a. in.) a telegraphic dispatch from the
Secretary of War, of which the following is a copy:
I have just received a telegraphic dispatch informing me that you have removed
forty muskets from Charleston Arsenal to Fort Moultrie. If you have removcd any
arms, return them instantly.
Answer by telegraph.
JOHN B. FLOYD,
Secretary of War.
Capt. JOHN G. FOSTER.
To this I immediately replied as follows:
I received forty muskets from the arsenal on the 17th. I shall return them in obedi-
ence to your order.
J. G. FOSTER,
Hon. J. B. FLOYD, captain, Engineers.
Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
It may be well here to explain more fully than I have heretofore done
the circumstances connected with this issue of muskets to me. The Ord-
nance Department on the 1st of November directed that forty muskets
should be issued to me. I did not receive them at that time, because
Colonel Gardner, commanding at Fort Moultrie, ob.jected to the issue on
the ground that it appeared like arming my employPs. On the 17th
instant I went to the arsenal to obtain two guns which were required
at Fort Sumter, and which Colonel Huger had directed to be delivered
to me. While there I recollected that the ordnance sergeants at Fort
Sumter and Castle Piuckney had applied to me for the arms to which
they were entitled, and I asked the military storekeeper in charge of
the arsenal for two muskets and accouterments for those two sergeants.
He replied that he had no authority for the issue of two muskets for this
purpose, but that the old order for forty muskets was on file, and the
muskets and accouterments ready packed for delivery to me. So I re-
ceived them, and after issuing the two muskets to the two ordnance
sergeants at Fort Sumter and Castle Pinekucy placed the remainder in
the magazines of those two forts. They were actually needed to pro-
tect the public property. I knew nothing of Colonel lingers assurance
Page 101
CHAP. ILl
101
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON.
to the governor of the State that no arms should be removed from the
arsenal; neither did Captain llumphreys, military storekeeper. Con-
sequently, I was surprised to receive his letter of the 18th, which I in-
closed to you yesterday, desiring to have the muskets returned. My
reply was also iuclosed to you. What followed was as is described in
the commencement of this letter.
To-day at 3 oclock I received another letter from Captain llumph-
reys, a copy of which is inclosed, as is also my reply.
I should have mentioned above that on the 19th, when in town to see
General Schuierle and allay any excitement relative to the muskets, I
found to my surprise that there was no excitement except with a very
few who had been active in the matter, and the majority of the gentle-
men whom I met had not even heard of it.
The order of the Secretary of War of last night I must consider as
decisive upon the q aestion of any efforts on my part to defend Fort
Sumter and Castle Pinckney. The defense now can only extend to keep-
ing the gates closed and shutters fastened, and must cease when these
are forced.
I do not think that I am authorized to make the preparations for ex-
treme measures described in my letter of yesterday, but shall wait until
I receive your reply.
I would earnestly, but respectfully, urge that definite instructions be
given inc how to act in the emergency which, from the eagerness with
which rumors and other causes are seized upon to maintain and increase
the political excitement, will probably arise sooner or later. Until I am
directed to the contrary, I shall continue the work as at present on Fort
Sumter and the preparations for the defense of Fort Moultrie.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
(Inclosure No. 1.]
Capt. J. G. FOSTER, CHARLESTON, S. C., December 20, 1860.
U. ~. Engineer Corps:
DEAR SIR: During an interview with Governor Pickens this morn-
ing, he asked me whether or not I could state authoritatively that there
had not been twenty enlisted men sent from Fort Moultrie to Fort Sum.
ter. I told him that my conviction was that such was not the case, and
that I heard you make the statement yesterday to General Schuierle
that you had but one enlisted man at Fort Sumter.
The governor requested as a favor that such assurance should be
given him over the signature of an officer of the Army, and knowing
that you requested General Schuierle to write you should any rumor
obtain concerning you, I make known Governor Pickens desire to you,
and respectfully suggest that you send him immediately (as he said it
was important that he had a [denial] of the rumor by night) such com-
munication as you may deem best in the premises.
I regret exceedingly that you deemed it necessary to refer the matter
of the issue of the forty muskets, & c., to Washington, for I know that
such representations have gone on to the Department as will cause un-
necessary excitement, and insure a censure of my course in the matter
from tile Ordnance Department.
Very respectfully, yours,
F. C. IIUMPIIREYS,
Military Storekeeper Ordnance, U. S. Army
Page 102
102 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
[Inclosure No. 2.1
FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 20, 1860.
Capt. F. C. IIUMPHREYS,
Military Storekeeper, U. S. Ordnance Corps:
IDEAR SIR: I have received your letter of this date. I regret that I
cannot accede to your request to write to the governor-elect of South
Carolina and assure him that twenty enlisted men had not, as he had
heard, been sent from Fort Moultrie to Fort Sumter. As the governor
of a State that has by an ordinance to-day decided to secede from the
Union, I cannot, Ii conceive, properly communicate with him in matters
of this kind, except through the Government at Washington.
I regret exceedingly that an unfounded rumor of this kind should have
obtained the serious attention of the governor of South Carolina. I, as
the officer in charge of Fort Sumter, can assuxe you that no enlisted
men have been transferred from Fort Moultrie to Fort Sumter.
With respect to the issue of the muskets, I consider that you only per-
formed your duty in obedience to existing orders. I certainly think that
I did mine. As to my after action in referring the matter to Washing-
ton, I am, of course, the only one responsible. You cannot, therefore,
be censured without cause.
Truly yours, in haste,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
[Indorsement.]
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, December 24, 1860.
Respectfully submitted to the honorable Secretary of War for his in-
formation, and with the earnest request that the instructions solicited
by Captain Foster may be promptly -given.
II. G. WRIGHT,
Captain of Engineers, in charge.
ORDNANCE OFFICE,
Washington, December 20, 1860.
Hon. JOHN B. FLOYD
Secretary of War:
SIR: The inclosed telegram, purporting to be from Capt. J. G. Fos-
ter, the Engineer officer in charge of Fort Sumter, reached me last night,
and gives the first information to this office that the forty old muskets
had been issued to the captain. On the contrary, the previous corre-
spondence on the subject indicates that the issue of these muskets has
not been and will not be made. On the 31st October last Colonel Craig
informed you that the Engineer in charge of Fort Sumter had suggested
the placing of a few small-arms in the hands of his workmen for the l)ro-
tection of the Government property there, and recommended that it
should be done, provided that it met the concurrence of the command-
ing officer of the troops in Charleston Harbor. The recommendation
was approved, and Col. J. L. Gardner, then commanding at Charleston
Harbor, was duly notified thereof and authorized to (lirect the issue if
it met his approval, and to report the fact to this office. He answered
under date of ~th November, 1860, and (lid not concur in the expediency
of the issue. His letter was submitted to you on the 8th November
Page 103
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 103
with the remark by the Colonel of Ordnance that it is probable the
issue has not and will not be made without further orders. No further
orders have been given, and no report or other information on the sub-
ject has reached this office except the inclosed telegram. That is so in-
definite (except as to the fact that Captain Foster has received the forty
old muskets) as to be difficult to understand, and, consequently, to an-
swer.* It does not state by whom the little talk about the issue was
had, nor who asks Captain Foster to return the muskets. From all the
indications I am doubtful about the genuineness of the dispatch. If
answered at all I think the best reply will be: If you dont want the
muskets, return them.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. MAYKADIER,
Captain of Ordnance.
[InclosureTelegram.]
CHARLESTON, December 19, 1860.
Capt. WM. MAYNADIER,
Ordnance Department:
I received from the arsenal on the 17th the forty old muskets ordered
to be issued to me November 1. There is some little talk about it, and
I am asked to return them. Shall I return them or keep them ~
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers, U. S. Army.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, December 21, 1860.
Major ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Commanding Fort ]Jfoultrie, S. C.:
SIR: In the verbal instructions communicated to you by Major Buell, t
you are directed to hold possession of the forts in the harbor of Charles-
ton, and, if attacked, to defend yourself to the last extremity. Under
these instructions, you might infer that you are required to make a vain
and useless sacrifice of your own life and the lives of the men under
your command, upon a mere point of honor. This is far from the Presi-
dents intentions. You are to exercise a sound military discretion on
this subject.
It is neither expected nor desired that you should expose your own
life or that of your men in a hopeless conflict in defense of these forts.
If they are invested or attacked by a fom ce so superior that resistance
would, in your judgment, be a useless waste of hP~, it will be your duty
to yield to necessity, and make the best terms in your power.
This will be the conduct of an honorable, brave, and humane officer,
and you will be fully justified in such action. These orders are strictly
confidential, and not to be communicated even to the officers under
your command, wifAout close necessity4
Very respec fully,
JOHN B. FLOYD.
Foster to Do Russy, December QO, 1860, p. 100.
t See Buells memorandum, December 11, 1860, p. 89.
t This letter delivered to Major Auderson December 23, by Capt. John Withers,
A. A. G
Page 104
104 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
ORDNANCE OFFICE,
Washington, December 21, 1860.
Hon. JOHN B. FLOYD,
Secretary of War:
SIR: All the information called for by the letter of the Hon. B. Stan-
ton, chairman of the Committee on Military Affairs of the House of Rep-
resentatives, an(l the accompanying resolution of that conimittee, dated
the 18th instant, so far as it is within the purview of the Ordnance De-
partment, will be found in the inclosed statements, viz:
No. 1. Quantity and description of ordnance and arms at each of the
forts in Charleston Harbor, viz, at Fort Moultrie, at Castle Piuckney, at
Fort Sumter, and at the Charleston Arsenal, with the name and grade
of the officer in charge of the arsenal, and the force under his control.*
No. 2. Number and description of arms distributed since the 1st of
January, 1860, to the States and Teruiitories, and at what price.*
No. 3. Arms distributed by sale since 1st January, 1860, to whom sold,
and at what price.*
It is deemed proper to state, in further explanation of No. 2, that
where no distribution appears to have been made to a State or Terri-
tory, or the amount of distribution is small, it is because such State or
Territory has not called for all the arms due on its quotas, and remains a
creditor for dues not distributed, which can be obtained at any time on
requisition therefor.
The letter of the Hon. B. Stanton, with the accompanying resolution,
is returned herewith.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WA. MAYNADJER,
Captain of Ordnance.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, December 21, 1860.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: Your letters of the 4th and 13th instants, reporting the
operations you have undertaken for improving the defensible condition
of the forts in Charlestou Harbor, have been received, and your action
in the matter is ftilly approved by this Department.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
iR. E. DE IRUSSY,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Engineers, 6~ommanding.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, December 21, 1860.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: In reply to your letter of the 17th instant, I have to state
that on inquiry at the Medical Bureau it is found that there is no
intention of relieving Assistant Surgeon Crawford from duty at Fort
Moultrie at present, but that it is presumed he will still be willing to
go on attending to your men, as he is understood to be now doing, with-
* See inclosure to Holt to Stanton, January 3, 1861, post. Nos. 2 and 3 not found
Page 105
CHAP. I.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
105
out any specific instructions. The formal reference of your application
to the Adjutant-General is therefore considered unnecessary.
Your letter of the 18th instant, inclosing correspondence with Military
Storekeeper lluinphreys, in regard to the return of the muskets drawn
from the Charleston Arsenal, is also received.
It having been ascertained on inquiry at the War iDepartment that
instructions have already been sent you to return the muskets referred
to, no further action on yonr letter seems to be necessary.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
IL E. BE IIUSSY
Lieutenant- Colonel, Engineers,
Commanding.
No. 10.] FORT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 22, 1860.
(Received A. U. 0., December 26.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: Captain Foster is apprehensive that the remarks in my
letter of the 20th instant may be considered as reflecting upon him, and
I told him that I would cheerfu]ly state distinctly that I do not intend
to pass any criticism upon his proceedings.
I stated in my last letter fully all the reasons I intended to give
against commencing the second caponiere. The captain has put a very
large force of masons on it, and they are running up the walls very rap-
idly. He says, as he has all the material on hand the men
completed the first one, will be enabled to the ,havingju~t
construct second caponiere
as soon as they could finish any temporary work in its stead. He says
that he will have the work defensible in five more working days, and
have it finished in nine more working days. God knows whether the
South Carolinians will defer their attempt to take this work so long as
that. I must confess that I think where an officer is placed in as deli-
cate a position as the one I occupy that he should have the entire control
over all persons connected in any way with the work intrusted to him.
Responsibility and power to control ought to go together.
I have heard from several sources that last night and the night before
a steamer was stationed between this island and Fort Sumter. That the
authorities of South Carolina are determined to prevent, if possible, any
troops from being placed in that fort, and that they will seize upon that
most important work as soon as they think there is reasonable ground
for a doubt whether it will be turned over to the State I do not doubt.
I think that I could, however, were I to receive instructions so to do,
throw my garrison into that work, but I should have to sacrifice the
greater part of my stores, as it is now too late to attempt their removal.
Once in that work with my garrison I could keep the entrance of their
harbor open until they construct works outside of me, which might, I
presume, prevent vessels from coming into the outer harbor.
We have used nearly all the empty barrels which Captain Foster had
wisely saved for embrasures, traverses, & c., and Captain Foster is now
making use of our gun-pent houses for the same purpose, filling them
with sand.
No one can tell what will be done. They may defer action until their
commissioners return from Washington; or, if apprised by the nature
of the debates in Congress that their demands will not probably be ac-
ceded to, they may act without waiting for them.
I do not think that we can rely upon any assurances, and wish to God
I only had men enough here to man fully my guns. Our men are per
Page 106
106 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
fectly conscious of the dangerous position they are placed in, but are in
as fine spirits as if they were certain of victory.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Jfajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
P. S.J have just heard that several of the men at work iu Fort
Sumter wear the blue cockade. If they are bold enough to do that the
sooner that force is disbanded the better. The public property would
be safer there nnder Lieutenant Snyder and a few men than it now is.
R.A.
SULLIVANS ISLAND, S. C., December 22, 1860.
Col. R. E. DE Russ~
Commanding 6~ops of Engineers, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I feel it my duty to inform you that on the last two nights
steamers from town have remained in the close vicinity of Fort Sumter,
apparently with the object of maintaining gnard over the fort. On the
first night, that of the 20th, only one came. She approached from the
direction of town, as though running for the wharf and her movements
attracting the attention of the watchman, he awoke Lieutenant Sny-
der, who, when he went upon the ramparts, found her close under the
west flank, apparently sounding. She afterwards moved off to a second
position about six hundred yards from the fort, and remained during the
night. She showed no lights. On the same night this or another
steamer reconnoitered and remained around Castle Piuckney for some
time, and when hailed by the night watch on the Castle as to what she
wanted, some one replied, You will know in a week. Last night two
steamers kept watch around Fort Sumter.
These steamers are the small harbor or coast steamers, and one of
them was named the Nina. Judging it best not to incur any risk of an
unpleasant occurrence, I have not taken any steps to ascertain the ob-
ject of this surveillance, nor of those in command of the steamers. The
recent orders emanating from the War Department have given me the
assurance that every cause that might irritate these people must be
avoided. However mortifying it may be to know that there are no
means for defense in Fort Sumter, and that the military men of the city
have their eyes fixed upon it as the prize to obtain, I feel bound to carry
out this idea in my every act.
I do not even feel authorized to vary my present plan of operations,
either by a reduction or an increase of force, although my expenses are
very heavy, and my present liabilities barely covered by my requisitions
just made. Whenever the Department desires that I may make a change
of operations, I beg that it may soon be coii imunicated to me.
At Fort Moultrie I am still exerting myself to the utmost to make it
so defensible as to discourage any attempts to take it. The wet ditch is
now completed. The whole of the east front is now raised by solid
merlons, two barrels high, and in three positions to a greater height to
serve fo~r cavaliers. The guns are provided with good siege-battery em-
brasures, faced with green hides, and two of them 18-inch howitzers,
one in addition furnished with musket-proof shutters working on an
axis, elevated over the throat of the embrasure by supports on each
side, and maneuvered by double bars extending back over the gun.
A field howitzer has been put in position on the parapet at the north-
east salient by means of a palmetto stockade, so as to sweep the vicinit
Page 107
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 107
of that angle better than it was before. Traverses to intercept shot from
the sand hills have been placed on the parapet and upon the terrepleins.
The bridge connecting the barracks and guard-house is completed, the
doors arranged with fastenings, doors cut through the partition walls of
the barracks, trap-doors cut in the floors, and ladders made. The howit-
zers in the finished caponiere are pnt in good working order. The sec-
ond caponiere was commenced yesterdiy morning, with a full force of
masons, and by to-night was over six feet in height, with both embra-
sures completed. Major Anderson wanted me to adopt some more tem-
porary constrnction, but I showed him that this would be far more val-
nable in the defense, and having the materials and masons ready, I
could construct it just as quickly and cheaply. On Monday I shall
erect a lookout tower or sharpshooter stand on top of the guard-house,
at Major Andersons request. I have stopped for the present the work
upon the glacis in front of the sea front, and pnt all my force upon the
above works. The glacis has, however, assumed fine proportions, and
is in fact nearly completed. One-half of the interior slope is well sodded,
and half of the glacis slope covered with mnck six inches thick.
It will take very little work to complete the whole of it as soon as the
present pressing work is finished.
Very truly, yours,
J. U. FOSTER,
Gaptain, Engineers.
[Indorsemeut No. 1.]
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, December 24, 1860.
Respectfully submitted -to the honorable Secretary of War for his in-
formation, and with the earnest request that the instructions solicited
by Captain Foster may be promptly given.
H. U. WRIGHT,
Captain of Engineers, in charge.
[Indorsement No. 2.]
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, December 26, 1860.
Respectftilly referred to the honorable Secretary of War, and his at-
tention urgently called to the within report as one of great importance.
H. G. WRIGHT,
Captain of Engineers, in charge.
[Indorsement No. 3.]
ENGINEER OFFICE, December 26, 1860..
Have just seen the Secretary of War, and read to him the within let-
ter. His only remarks in regard to it were that it was very satisfactory,
and that he hoped or thought, I dont distinctly reniember which, that
we should get over these troubles without bloodshed. He further said
he did not wish to retain the letterthis in answer to my question.
H.G.W.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, December 24, 1860.
Capt. J. U. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: In reply to your letter of the 20th instant* I have to say that
on application at the Treasury it is ascertained that no remittance can
5Askiug for $10,000 on account of Fort Sumter
Page 108
108 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. JCHAF. If.
be made to your credit until after the 28th instant, and that soon after
that date all requisitions upon the Treasury will be promptly met as
heretofore.
This office will omit no effort to supply you with funds at the earliest
possible moment, and as soon as it is ascertained that funds can be sup-
plied you will be promptly informed.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
II. G. WRIGHT,
Captain of Engineers, in charge.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Capt. J. G. FOSTER, Washington, December 27, 1860.
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: I have to acknowledge the receipt of the following letters
from you, viz:
1. Letter of December 20, reporting in regard to the receipt of forty
muskets, & c., for Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney, and their return to
the arsenal by dircction of the Secretary of War.
2. Letter of December 22, reporting that steamers from Charleston
had been engaged for the last two nights in reconnoitering and watch-
ing Fort Sui ter and Castle Piuckney, and also detailing the progress of
your ol)erations at Fort Moultrie toward putting that work in a defensi-
ble condition.
3. Your letter of the 19th December, not before acknowledged, pre-
senting for the consideration of the Government a proposition for pre-
venting the occupation of Fort Sumter by any force not acting under
the authority of the United States.
These several letters have been laid before the Secretary of War, and
his instructions in relation to the important matters presented therein
earnestly requested. Thus far no such instructions have been received,
though the Secretary expressed himself fully satisfied with the efforts
von have made and the zeal you have exhibited iii the trying position
in which you are placed.
This Department is highly gratified with the course you have pursued,
and fully approves all the steps you have taken for the security of the
public interests at the fortifications in Charleston Harbor. At the same
time it cannot fail to express the hope that some definite instructions
may be soon given for your guidance.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
II. G. WRIGHT,
Gaptain Engineers, in charge.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., December 27, 1860.
Col. B. E. DE Russy,
6~onimanding Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army, Washington, D. 6
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that yesterday evening Major
Anderson removed his command from Fort Moultrie to Fort Sumter,
leaving a guard with me, with orders to spike the guns, cut down the
flagstaff, and burn the carriages of those guns that point towards Fort
Sumter. This was done. To-day I went to town to negotiate a draft
on New York to pay off the men employed on Fort Moultrie. I sa
Page 109
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 109
that an attack was to be made somewhere to-night, and also that it
would not be safe for me to go to town again for some time.
Returning, I brought my family to Fort Sumter, as all guard was with-
drawn. At abont 4 oclock a steamer landed an armed force at Castle
Pinckney, and effecting an entrance by scaling the walls with ladders,
took forcible possession of the work. Lientenaut Meade was suffered
to withdraw to this fort.
Soon after dark two steamers landed an armed force at Fort Moultrie,
and took forcible possession of that work. While in town the Palmetto
flag was hoisted on the custom-house and saluted. Two companies were
ordered to surround the arsenal. The movement of Major Anderson
was made upon a firm conviction that an attack would be made, and
that Fort Sumter would be seized first. In haste.
Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
[Indorsement.]
DECEMBER 31, 1860.
Read the within to Lientenant-General Scott this morning.
II. G. W.
WA5HINc4ON, December 28, 1860.
The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
SIR: We have the honor to transmit to you a copy of the full powers
from the Convention of the People of South Carolina, nnder which we
are authorized and empowered to treat xvith the Government of the
United States for the delivery of the forts, magazines, lighthouses, and
other real estate, with their appurtenances, within the limits of South
Carolina; and also for an apportionment of the public debt and a di-
vision of all other property held by the Government of the United
States as agent of the confederated States, of which South Carolina
was recently a member; and, generally, to negotiate as to all other meas-
ures and arrangements proper to be made and adopted in the existing
relations of the parties, and for the continuance of peace and amity be-
tween this Commonwealth and the Government at Washington.~~
In the execution of this trust it is our duty to furnish you, as we now
do, with an official copy of the ordinance of secession, by which the
State of South Carolina has resumed the powers she delegated to the
Government of the United States, and has declared her perfect sover-
eignty and independence.
It would also have been our duty to have informed you that we were
ready to negotiate with you upon all such questions as are necessarily
raised by the adoption of this ordinance, and that we were prepared to
enter upon this negotiation with the earnest desire to avoid all unneces-
sary and hostile collision, and so to inaugurate our new relations as to
secure mutual respect, general advantage, and a future of good will and
harmony, beneficial to all the parties concerned. But the events of the
last twenty-four hours render such an assurance impossible. We came
here, the representatives of an authority which could at any time within
the past sixty days have taken possession of the forts in Charleston
Harbor, but which, upon pledges given in a manner that we cannot
doubt, determined to trust to your honor rather than to its own power.
Since our arrival an officer of the United States acting, as we are as
Page 110
110
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
sured, not oniy without but against your orders, has dismantled one fort
and occupied another, thus altering to a most important extent the con-
dition of affairs under which we came.
Until those circumstances are explained in a manner which relieves us
of all doubt as to the s~irit in which these negotiations shall be con-
ducted, we are forced to suspend all discussion as to any arrangements
by which our mutual interests might be amicably adjusted.
And, in conclusion, we would urge upon you the immediate with-
drawal of the troops from the harbor of Charleston. Under present
circumstances they are a standing menace which renders negotiation
impossible, and, as our recent experience shows, threatens speedily to
bring to a bloody issue questions which ought to be settled with tem-
perance and judgment.
We have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servants,
IR. W. BAJtNWELL,
J. II. ADAMS,
JAMES L. GlUt,
Commissioners.
[Inclosures.]
THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA:
At a Convention of the People of the State of South Carolina, begun
and holden at Columbia on the seventeenth day of December, in the
year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty, and thence con-
tinued by adjournment to Charleston, and there, by divers adjournments,
to the twentieth of December in the same year:
AN ORDINANCE to dissolve the union between the State of South Carolina and other
States united with her under the compact entitled The Constitution of the United
States of America
We, the People of the State of South Carolina in convention assem-
bled, do declare and ordain, and it is hereby declaied and ordained,
that the ordinance adopted by us in convention on the twenty-third
day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and
eighty-eight, whereby the Constitution of the United States of America
was ratified, and also all acts and parts of acts of the general assembly
of this State ratifying amendments of the said Constitution, are hereby
repealed; and that the union now subsisting between South Carolina
and other States, under the name of the United States of ~
is hereby dissolved.
Done at Charleston the twentieth day of December, in the year of
our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty.
D. F. JAMISOX,
Delegate from Barnwell, and
President of the Convention, and others.
Attest:
BENJAMIN F. ARTHUR,
Clerk of the Convention.
OFFICE OF SECRETARY OF STATE,
Charleston, S. C., December 22, 1860,
I do hereby certify that the foregoing ordinance is a true and correct
copy taken from the original on file in this office.
Witness my hand and the seal of the State.
[L. ~.1 ISAAC II. MEANS,
Secretary of State
Page 111
CHAP. I.]
111
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
The State of South Carolina, by the Convention of the People of the said
State, to Robert W. Baruwell, James H. Adams, and James L.Orr:
Whereas the Convention of the People of the State of South Carolina,
begun and holden at Columbia on the seventeenth day of December, in
the year of oar Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty, and thence
continued by adjournment to Charleston, did, by resolution, order That
three Commissioners, to be elected by ballot of the Convention, be di-
rected forthwith to proceed to Washington, anthorized and empowered
to treat with the Government of the United States for the delivery of
the forts, magazines, light-houses, and other real estate, with their ap-
purtenances, withiu the limits of South Carolina; and also for an appor-
tionment of the public debt and for a division of all other property held
by the Government of the United States as agent of the confederated
States, of which South Carolina was recently a member; and, generally,
to negotiate as to all other measures and arrangements proper to be made
and adopted in the existing relations of the parties, and for the contin-
uance of peace and amity between this Commonwealth and the Govern-
ment at Washington;
And whereas the said Convention did, by ballot, elect. you to the said
office of Commissioners to the Government at Washington:
Now, be it known that the said Convention, by these presents, doth
commission you, Robert W. Baruwell, James H. Adams, and James L.
Orr, as Commissioners to the Government at Washington, to have, to
hold, and to exercise the said office, with all the powers, rights, and
privileges conferred upon the same by the terms of the resolution herein
cited.
Given under the seal of the State, at Charleston, the twenty-second
day of December, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and sixty.
[L. S.] D. F. JAMISON,
President.
iSAAC H. MEANS,
Secretary of State.
Attest:
B. F. ARTHUR,
Clerk of the Convention.
[Memorandum.]
WASHINGTON, D. C., December 28, 1860.
The following message was delivered by Lieutenant-Colonel Lay, aide-
de-camp, from the General-in Chief to the President of the United States,
in person, about 3~ p. in., December 27:
Since the formal order, unaccompanied by special instructions, assigning Major
Anderson to the command of Fort Moultrie, no order, intimation, suggestion, or corn-
munication for his government and guidance has gone to that officer, or any of his
subordinates, from the Headquarters of the Army; nor have any reports or communi-
cations been addressed to the General-in-Chief from Fort Moultrie later than a letter
written by Major Anderson, almost immediately after his arrival in Charleston Harbor,
reporting the then state of the work.
G. W. LAY,
Lieutenant-Colonel, A. D. C.
The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
Page 112
112 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
[Memorandum.]
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
Wa8hington, December 28, 1860.
Lieutenant-General Scott, who has had a bad night, and can scarcely
hold np his head tliis morning, begs to express the hope to the Secretary
of War
1. That orders may not be given for the evacuation of Fort Sumter;
2. That one hundred and fifty recruits may instantly be sent from
Governors Island to re-enforce that garrison, with ample supplies of
ammunition, subsistence, including fresh vegetables, as potatoes, oniou~,
turnips; and
3. That one or two armed vessels be sent to support the said fbrt.
Lieutenant-General Scott avails himself of this opportunity also to ex-
press the hope that the recommendations heretofore niade by him to the
Secretary of War respecting Forts Jackson, Saint Philip, Morgan, and
Pulaski, and particularly in respect to Forts Pickens and MeRee and the
Pensacola navy-yard in connection with the last two named works, may
be reconsidered by the Secretary.
Lieutenant-General Scott will further ask the attention of the Secretary
to Forts Jefferson and Taylor, which are wholly national, being of far
greater value even to the most distant points of the Atlantic coast and
to the people on the upper waters of the Missouri, Mississippi, and Ohio
Rivers thai~ to the State of Florida. There is only a feeble company at
Key West for the defense of Fort Taylor, and not a soldier in Fort Jef-
ferson to resist a handful of filibusters or a rowboat of pirates; and the
Gulf soon after the beginning of secession or revolutionary troubles in
the adjacent States will swarm with such nuisances.
Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War.
No. 13.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., December 28, 1860.
(Received A. G. 0., January 1, 1861.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to send herewith a copy of a memoran-
dum received to-day from the governor of South Carolina, in reply to a
message from me, which shows that for the present we are treated as
enemies. I sent my post-adjutant this morning with a message to the
commanding officer of Fort Moultrie asking by what authority he held
possession of that work, and desiring to know whether he would make
any opposition to my sending for some property, public and private,
left there. He replied to my first question that he held that post by
authority of the sovereign State of South Carolina, and in obedience to
the orders of the governor. To the second, that his orders were not to
permit public property of any kind to be removed on any l)retext what-
ever; that he was diiected to take an inventory of the same, and to
send it to the governor; that he would with pleasure assist in recover-
ing and restoring all private property that was left. This decision
about the public property shows that South Carolina is acting in this
matter also toward us as if we were her enemy. The amount of public
property thus left i~ not great, as I merely retained enough to prevent
may movement from being suspected. He requested Lieutenant Hall to
say that at a general meeting of the officers, the military move I made
was unanimously pronounced to have been one of consummate wisdom;
that it was the best one that could have been made, and that if I ha
Page 113
Cu~. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 113
not effected it things would have been very different. Speaking of his
own position, he remarked that the guns of Fort Sumter looked into
his guns, and said that he ought not to have been ordered to fire upon
me, because if I returned his fire he would be compelled to retire to the
sand hills. There were yesterday two regiments to guard the island.
Tue remark about his orders looks like an intention to attack me here.
I must confess that I feel highly complimented by the expression of
such an opinion (from those most deeply affected by it) of the change of
position I felt bound to take to save my command and to prevent the
shedding of blood. In a few days I hope, God willing, that I shall be
so strong here that they will hardly be foolish enough to attack me. I
must confess that we have yet something to do before, with my small
force, I shall feel quite independent, as this work is not impregnable, as
I have heard it spoken of.
Trusting that something may occur which will lead to a peaceful
solution of the questions between the General Government and South
Carolina,
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, Eir8t Artillery, Commanding.
P. S.I do not feel authorized to reply to the memorandum of the
governor, but shall regret very deeply his persistence in the course he
has taken. He knows not how entirely the city of Charleston is in my
power. I can cut his communication off from the sea, and thereby
prevent the reception of supplies, and close the harbor, even at night,
by destroying the light-houses. These things, of course, Ii would never
do, unless compelled to do so in self-defense.
[InclosureCopy of memorandum from Governor Pickens.]
HEADQUARTERS, December 28, 1860.
In reply to Major Andersons request, made this morning verbally
through First Lieutenant Snyder, from Fort Sumter, I hereby order and
direct that free permission shall be given to him to send the ladies and
camp women from Fort Sumter, with their private effects, to any por-
tion of Sullivans Island, and that entire protection shall be extended
to them. It is also agreed that the mails may be sent over to the offi-
cers at Fort Sumter by their boats, and that all the ladies of Captain
Fosters family shall be allowed to pass, with their effects and the effects
of any kind belonging to Captain Foster, from the Mills House to Fort
Sumter, and the kindest regard shall be paid to them. Of course, Lieu-
tenant Meades private effects can be taken possession of; but for the
present there shall be no communications of any other kind allowed
from the city to the fort, or any transportation of arms or ammunition,
or any supplies, to the fort; and this is done with a view to prevent
irregular collisions, and to spare the unnecessary effusion of blood.
F. W. PICKENS.
WASIII~GTON, December 29, 1860.
LARz ANDERSON, Esq., Ulneinnati:
SIR: General Scott has been hoping for two or three days to find
himself well enough to answer your letter, but is too much prostrated
by diarrhea. He has done everything in his power to support you
Page 114
114 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CRAP. I.
brother in his command, repeating, with what effect remains to be seen,
within the last twenty-four hours, an urgent recommendation, long since
made, to the President to re-enforce the major.
The War Department has kept secret from the General the instruc-
tions sent to the major, bnt the General, in cornmon with the whole Army,
has admired and vindicated as a defensive measure the masterly transfer
of the garrison from Fort Moultrie to the position of Fort Sumter.
G. W. LAY.
WASHINGTON, December 30, 1860.
The PnE~IDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
Lieutenant-General Scott begs the President of the United States to
pardon the irregularity of this communication.
It is Sunday; the weather is bad, and General Scott is not well enough
to go to church. But matters of the highest national importance seem
to forbid a moments delay, and if misled by zeal, he hopes for the Presi-
dents forgiveness.
Will the President permit General Scott, without reference to the War
Department and otherwise, as secretly as possible, to send two hundred
and fifty recruits from New York Harbor to re-enforce Fort Snmter,
together with s6me extra muskets or rifles, ammunition, and subsistence
stores l
It is hoped that a sloop of war and cutter may be ordered for the
same purpose as early as to-morrow.
General Scott will wait upon the President at any moment he may be
called for.
The Presidents most obedient servant,
WINFIELD SCOTT.
No. 14.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., December 30, 1860.
(Ileceived A. G. O, Jan nary 2, 1861.)
Col. S. COOPER, A~jutant General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the South Carolinians
have established a post at Fort Johnson. It is said that one company
and a half was sent to that place yesterday. I saw that there was a
small party yesterday on Morris Island. They probably intend estab-
lishing batteries at Fort Johnson and on the island, and throwing shot
and shells at ns from those places and from Fort Monltrie, where they
are very busily engaged repairing their battery. The governor was
called upon by a friend of mine in reference to his decision, by which all
communicatiou between us and the city (except the sending for our
mails) was cut off and he refuses to modify or recall his order. We are
pushing forward our work here very vigorously, and if we have a week
longer, shall, by the blessing of God, be fully prepared for any attack
they may make.
lam, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBEIIT ANJ)ERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Comma ding
Page 115
CHAP. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 115
FORT SUMTER, S. C., December 30, 1860.
Col. R. E. BE Russ~,
Commanding Gorps of Engineers, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I am exerting myself to the utmost to make this work im-
pregnable, and am most ably and energetically supported by Lieutenants
Snyder and Meade. The whole labor of preparation falls upon us, as
the command is too small to be worn down by labor.
The quartermaster has no funds, and I therefore consider it my duty
to provide everything. I cannot commit to paper the preparations that
are completed and in progress to resist an attack here. Be assured,
however, that no efforts are spared to make them as complete as they
can be made under the circumstances. I beg that any funds that can
be obtained for me may be deposiP~d in New York.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
WASHINGTON CITY, December 31, 1860.
bus. ROBERT W. ]3ARNWELL, JAMES II. ADAMS, JAMEs L. OuR:
GENTLEMEN: I have had the honor to receive your communication
of the 28th instant, together with a copy of your full powers from the
Convention of the People of South Carolina authorizing you to treat
with the Government of the United States on various important sub-
jects therein mentioned, and also copy of the ordinance, bearing date
on the 20th instant, declaring that the union now subsisting between
South Carolina and other States under the name of the United States of
America is thereby dissolved.
In answer to this communication I have to say that my position as
President of the United States was clearly defined in the message to
Congress on the 3d instant. In that I stated that apart from the exe-
cution of the laws, so far as this may be practicable, the Executive has
no authority to decide what shall be the relations between the Federal
Government and South Carolina. He has been invested with no such
discretion. He possesses no power to change the relations heretofore
existing between them, munch less to acknowledge the independence of
that State. This would be to invest a mere executive officer with the
power of recognizing the dissolution of the confederacy among our
thirty-three sovereign States. It bears no resemblance to the recogni-
tion of a foreign do facto government, involving no such responsibility.
Any attempt to do this would, on his part, be a naked act of usurpa-
tion. It is therefore my duty to submit to Congress the whole question
in all its bearings.
Such is still my opinion, and I could therefore meet you only as pri-
vate gentlemen of the highest character, and [was quite willing to com-
municate to Congress any proposition you might have to make to that
body upon the subject. Of this you were well aware.
It was my earnest desire that such a disposition might be made of
the whole subject by Congress, who alone possess the power, as to pre-
vent the inauguration of a civil war between the parties in regard to
the possession of the Federal forts in the harbor of Charleston; and I
therefore deeply regret that, in your opinion, the events of the last
twenty-four hours render this impossible. In conclusion you urge
upon me the immediate withdrawal of the troops from the harbor o
Page 116
116 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
Charleston, stating that, under present circumstances, they are a
standing menace which renders negotiation impossible, and, as our re-
cent experience shows, threatens speedily to bring to a bloody issue
questions which ought to be settled with temperance and judgment.
The reason for this change in your position is that, since your arrival
in Washington, an officer of the United States, acting, as we (you) are
assured, not only without but against your (my) orders, has dismantled
one fort and occupied another, thus altering to a most important extent
the condition of affairs under which we (you) came.
You also allege that you came here the representatives of an au-
thority which could at any time within the past sixty days have taken
possession of the forts in Charleston Harbor, but which, upon pledges
given in a manner that we (you) cannot doubt, determined to trust to
your (my) honor rather than to its own power.~~
This brings me to a consideration of the nature of those alleged
pledges, and in what manner they have been observed. In my message
of the 3d of December instant I stated, in regard to the property of the
United States in South Carolina, that it has been purchased for a fair
equivalent, by the consent of the legislature of the State, for the erec-
tion of forts, magazines, arsenals, & c., and over these the authority to
exercise exclusive legislation has been expressly granted by the Con-
stitution to Congress. It is not believed that any attempt will be made
to expel the United States from this property by force; but if in this
I should prove to be mistaken, the officer in command of the forts has
received orders to act strictly on the defensive. In such a contingency
the responsibility for consequences would rightfully rest upon the heads
of the assailants.
This being the condition of the parties on Saturday, December 8,
four ofthe Representatives from South Carolina called upon me and re-
quested an interview. We had an earnest conversation on the subject.
of these forts and the best means of preventing a collision between the
parties, for the purpose of sparing the effusion of blood. I suggested,
for prudential reasons, that it would be best to put in writing what they
said to me verbally. They did so accordingly, and on Monday morning,
the 10th instant, three of them presented to me a paper signed by all
the Representatives of South Carolina, with a single exception, of which
the following is a copy:
WASHINGTON, December 9, 1860.
His Excellency JAMES BUCHANAN,
President of the United States:
In compliance with our statement to you yesterday, we now express to you onr
strong coavictions that neither the constituted authorities, nor any body of the people
of the State of South Carolina, will either attack or molest the United States forts iu
the harbor of Charleston previously to the action of the convention, and we hope and
believe not until an offer has been made, through au accredited representative, to ne-
gotiate for an amicable arrangement of all matters between the State and Federal
Government, provided that no rc-enforcements shall be sent into those forts, and their
relative military status shall remain as at present. JOHN McQUEEN.
WM. PORCHER MILES.
M. L. BONHAM.
W. W. BOYCE.
LAWRENCE M. KEITT.
And here I must, in justice to myself, remark that at the time the
paper was presented to me I objected to the word provided, as it might
be construed into an agreement on my part which I never would make.
They said nothing was further from their intention; they did not so under-
stand it, and I should not so consider it. It is evident they could ente
Page 117
CHAP. I,]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON.
117
into no reciprocal agreement with me on the subject. They did not
profess to have authority to do this, and were acting in their individual
character. I considered it as nothing more in effect than the promise
of highly honorable gentlemen to exert their influence for the purpose
expressed. The event has proven that they have faithfully kept this
promise, although I have never since received a line from any one of them,
or from the convention, on the subject. It is well known that it was my
determination, and this I freely expressed, not to re-enforce the forts in
the harbor, and thus produce a collision,until they had been actually
attacked, or until I had certain evidence that they were about to be at-
tacked. This paper I received most cordially, and considered it as a
happy omen that peace might be still preserved, and that time might
thus be gained for reflection. This is the whole foundation for the
alleged pledge.
But I acted in the same manner as I would have done had I entered
into a positive and formal agreement with parties capable of contract-
ing, although such an agreement would have been on my part, from the
nature of my official duties, impossible. The world knows that I have
never sent any re-enforcements to the forts in Charleston Harbor, and I
have certainly never authorized any change to be made in their rela-
tive military status.
Bearing upon this subject, I refer you to an order issued by the Secre-
tary of War, on the 11th instant, to Major Anderson, but not brought
to my notice until the 21st instant. It is as follows:
Memorandum of verbal instructions to Major Anderson, First Artillery, commanding at Fort
Moultrie, South Carolina.
You are aware of the great anxiety of the Secretary of War that a collision of the
troops with the people of this State shall be avoided, and of his studied determina-
tion to pursue a course with reference to the military force and forts in this harbor
whicli shall guard agaiust such a collision. He has therefore carefully abstained
from increasing the force at this point, or taking any measures which might add to
the present excited state of the public mind, or which would throw any doubt on the
confidence he feels that South Carolina will not attempt by violence to obtain pos-
session of the public Works or interfere with their occupancy. Bat as the counsel and
acts of rash and impulsive persons may possibly disappoint these expectations of the
Government, he deems it proper that you shall be prepared with instructions to meet
so unhappy a contingency. He has therefore directed me verbally to give you such
instructions.
You are carefully to avoid every act which would needlessly tend to provoke ag-
gression; and f9r that reason you are not, without evident and imminent necessity, to
take up any position which could be construed into the assumption of a hostile atti-
tnde. But you are to hold possession of the forts in this harbor, and if attacked you
are to defend yourself to the last extreniity. The smallness of yonr force will not
permit you, perhaps, to occupy more than one of the three forts, but an attack on or
attempt to take possession of either one of them will be regarded as an act of hostil-
ity, and you may then put your command into either of them which you may deem
most proper to increase its power of resistance. You are also authorized to take simi-
lar defensive steps whenever you have tangible evidence of a design to proceed to a
hostile act.
D. C. BUELL,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
FonT MOULTRIE, S. C., December 11, 1860.
This is in conformity to my instructions to Major Bud.
JOHN B. FLOYD,
Secretary of War.
These were the last instructions transmitted to Major Anderson before
his removal to Fort Sumter, with a single exception, in regard to a par-
ticular which does not in any degree affect the present question. Under
these circumstances it is clear that Major Anderson acted upon his own
responsibility, and without authority, unless, indeed, he had tangibh
Page 118
118 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
evidence of a design to proceed to a hostile ~ on the part of the au-
thorities of South Carolina, which has not yet been alleged. Still, he is
a brave and honorable officer, and justice requires that he should not be
condemned without a fair hearing
Be this as it may, when I learned that Major Anderson had left Fort
Moultrie and proceeded to Fort Sumter, my first promptings were to
command him to return to his former position, and there await the con-
tingencies presented in his instructions. This could only have been done
with any degree of safety to the commaiid by the concurrence of the
South Carolina authorities. But before any steps could possibly have
been taken in this direction, we received information, dated on the 28th
instant, that the palmetto flag floated out to the breeze at Castle
Pinckney, and a large military force went over last night (the 27th) to
Fort Moultrie. Thus the authorities of South Carolina, without wait-
ing or asking for any explanation, and doubtless believing, as you have
expressed it, that the officer had acted not only without but against my
orders, on the very next day after the night when the movement was
made, seized by a military force two of the three Federal forts in the
harbor of Charleston, and have covered them under their own flag in-
stead of that of the United States. At this gloomy period of our his-
tory startling events succeed each other rapidly. On the very day, the
27th instant, that possession of these two forts was taken the palmetto
flag was raised over the Federal custom-house and post-office in Charles-
ton; and on the same day every officer of the customs, collector, naval
officer, surveyor, and appraisers, resigned their offices. And this,
although it was well known from the language of my message that, as
an executive officer, I felt myself bound to collect the revenue at the
port of Charleston under the existing laws.
In the harbor of Charleston we now find three forts confronting each
other,overall of which the Federal flag floated only four days ago; but
now ever two of them this flag has beeim supplanted, and the palmetto
flag has been substituted in its stead. It is under all these circum stances
that I am urged iuimediately to withdraw the troops from the harbor of
Charleston, and am informed that without this, negotiation is impossible.
This I cannot do; this I will not do. Such an idea was never thought
of by me in any possible contingency. No allusion had ever been made
to it in any communication between myself and any human being. But
the inference is that I am bound to withdraw the troops from the only
fort remaining in the possession of the United States in the harbor of
Charleston, because time officer there in command of all the forts thought
proper, without instructions, to change his position from one of them to
another. I cannot admit the justice of any such inference. And at
this point of writing I have received information by telegraph from
Captain llumphreys, in command of the arsenal at Charleston, that it
has to-day (Sunday, the 30th) been taken by force of arms. Com-
ment is needless. It is estimated that the property of the United States
in this arsenal was worth half a million of dollars.
After this information I have only to add that, whilst it is my duty to
defend Fort Sumter as a portion of public property of the United
States against hostile attacks, from whatever quarter they may come,
by such means as I may possess for this purpose, I do not perceive
how such a defense can be construed into a menace against the city of
Charleston.*
With great personal regard, I remain, yours, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
*See Commissioners reply, January 1, 1861, post
Page 119
CHiP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 119
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
Washington, December 31, 1860.
Colonel Dniicx, or commanding officer, Fort Monroe:
SIR: Prepare and put on board of the sloop-of-war Brooklyn, as soon
as the latter can receive them, four companies, making at least two hun-
dred men, destined to re enforce Fort Sumter. Embark with said com-
panies twenty-five spare stands of arms, complete, and subsistence
for the entire detachment for ninety days, or as near that amount as
your supplies may furnish. Communicate at once with the commander
of the war steamer, learn the earliest moment at which he can receive
the troops on board, and do not fill to have them there by that time.
W. SCOTT.
Manage everything as secretly and confidentially as possible. Look
to this.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY
Washington, December 31, 1860.
To the PRESIDENT:
Lieutenant-General Scott again begs leave to trespass for a moment
on the indulgence of the President of the United States, particularly as
he learns by minor that there is no head to the War Department.*
Such are the necessities of the service that it is hoped the vacancy in
question may be speedily filled, and, incidentally, that the new Secre-
tary, if ad interim, may not be a junior officer of the Army, as it would
wound the pride of any senior to serve nnder such Secretary.
Lieutenant-General Scott deems it to be his duty to lay the accom-
panying letter before the President. t The writer is a distinguished
graduate of the Military Academy, and an eminent lawyer of the New
York bar. Major-General Sandford, mentioned by him, is an officer and
citizen of great merit and discretion, commanding the City Division of
Volunteers.
General Scott does not recommend the acceptance of Mr. ilanuiltons
proposition, t as we have disposable regulars enough for that single pur-
pose; but that we already require many and large detachments for the
protection of our coast defenses farther south is becoming daily more
and more evident.
In reference to General Scotts note of yesterday to the President, he
respectfully adds: Of course, the War Department and General Scott
cannot communicate anything to Major Anderson, or receive by mail or
telegraphic wires anything from him (who must be regarded as in a state
of siege), except by permission of the authorities in Charleston; and it
is just possible in his state of isolation a system of forged telegrams
from this place may be played off so successfully as to betray him into
some false movement.
Most respectfully submitted to the President of the United States.
WINFIELD SCOTT.
P. S.As a sequence to the foregoing, it is respectfully suggested that
there seems to be no other way of freely communicating with Major
Anderson than by water, say by a revenue cutter running regularly be-
tween Wilmington, N. C., and Fort Sumter.
W. S.
* No record of Mr. Floyds letter of resi ona
tNot of record. b tion can be found in tlic War Department
Page 120
120 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
No. 15.] FORT SUYETER, S. C., December 31, 1860.
(iReceived A. Cr. 0., January 5, 1861.)
Go!. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the South Carolinians
show great activity in the harbor to-day. Several steamers have been
rnnning to and fro, and this afternoon about 80 soldiers, with wheel-
barrows, barrels, & c., and some draught horses, were landed on Morris
Island. They are evidently constructing a battery or batteries there.
The lights in the harbor were put out last night, and ours is the only
light-house of this harbor which exhibits a light to-night. I am at a
loss what this means, unless it be that some armed vessel is expected
here. The more I reflect upon the matter the stronger are my con-
victions that II was right in coming here. Whilst we were at Fort
Moultrie our safety depended on their forbearance. A false telegram
might, any night, have been seized upon as an excuse for taking this
place, and then we would have been in their power. And even if
there had been an understanding between the two Governments that I
was not to be interfered with until the termination Qf the mission to
Washington, the fact of the governors having ordered armed steamers
to keep watch over me would have absolved our Government from the
obligation to remain quiescent. It is certain, too, that the moment a
telegram was received announcing the failure of the mission, an attack
would have been made and my command sacrificed, for there can be
no surrender with these men, if attacked, without a serious fight.
Thank God, we are now where the Government may send us additional
troops at its leisure. To be sure, the uncivil and uncourteous action of
the governor in preventing us from purchasing anything in the city will
annoy and inconvenience us somewhat; still, we are safe. I find that
in consequence of a failure (accidental) to comply with my instructions,
there is only a small supply of soap and candles, and also of coal. Still,
we can cheerfully put up with the inconvenience of doing without them,
for the satisfaction we feel in the knowledge that we can command this
harbor as long as our Government wishes to keep it.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
Reply of Commissioners to the President.
WASHINGTON, B. C., January 1, 1861.
To his Excellency the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
SIR: We have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 30th December, in reply to a note addressed by us to you on the 28th
of the same month, as Commissioners from South Carolina.
In reference to the declaration with which your reply commences, that
your position as President of the United States was clearly defined in
the message to Congress of the 3d ~ that you possess no power
to change the relations heretofore existing between South Carolina and
the United States, much less to acknowledge the independence of that
~ and that, consequently, you could meet us only as private gen-
tlemen of the highest character, with an entire willingness to communi-
cate to Congress any proposition we might have to make, we deem it
only necessary to say that the State of South Carolina having, in th
Page 121
Cii& r. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION~ 121
exercise of that great right of self-government which underlies all our
political organizations, declared herself sovereign and independent, we,
as her representatives, felt no special solicitude as to the character in
which you might recognize us. Satisfied that the State had simply ex-
ercised her unquestionable right, we were prepared, in order to reach
substantial good, to waive the formal considerations which your consti-
tutional scruples might have prevented you from extending. We came
here, therefore, expecting to be received as you did receive us, and per-
fectly content with that entire willingness of which you assured us, to
submit any proposition to Congress which we might have to make upon
the subject of the independence of the State.
That willingness was ample recognition of the condition of public
affairs which rendered our presence necessary. In this position, how-
ever, it is our duty, both to the State which we represent and to our-
selves, to correct several important misconceptions of our letter into
which you have fallen.
You say: It was my earnest desire that such a disposition might be
made of the whole subject by Congress, who alone possess the power, as
to prevent the inauguration of a civil war between the parties in regard
to the possession of the Federal forts in the harbor of Charleston, and
I therefore deeply regret that, in yonr opinion, the events of the last
twenty-four hours render this impossible. We expressed no such opin-
ion, and the language which you quote as ours is altered in its sense by
the omission of a most important part of the sentence. What we did
say was, But the events of the last twenty-four hours render such an
assurance impossible.~~ Place that assurance as contained in our let-
ter in the sentence, and we are prepared to repeat it.
Again, professing to quote our language, you say: Thus the author-
ities of South Carolina, without waiting or asking for any explanation,
and doubtless believing, as you have expressed it, that the officer had
acted not only without, but against my orders, & c. We expressed no
such opinion in reference to the belicf of the people of South Carolina.
The language which you have quoted was applied solely and entirely to
oitr assurance, obtained here, and based, as you well know, upon your
oxvn declarationa declaration which, at that time, it was impossible for
the authorities of South Carolina to have known. But without follow-
ing this letter into all its details, we propose only to meet the chief points
of the argument.
Some weeks ago, the State of South Carolina declared her intention
in the existing condition of public affairs to secede from the United
States. She called a convention of her people to put her declaration in
force. The convention met, and passed the ordinance of secession. All
this you anticipated, and your course of action was thoroughly consid-
ered. In your anunal message you declared you had no right, and
would not attempt, to coerce a seceding State, but that you were bound
by your constitutional oath, and would defend the property of the United
States within the borders of South Carolina if an attempt was made to
take it by force. Seeing very early that this question of property was
a difficult and delicate one, you manifested a desire to settle it without
collision. You did not re-enforce the garrisons in the harbor of Charles-
ton. You removed a distinguished and veteran officer from the corn-
mand of Fort Moultrie because he attempted to increase his supply of
ammunition. You refused to send additional troops to the same garri-
son when applied for by the officer appointed to succeed him. You ac-
cepted the resignation of the oldest and most efficient member of your
Cabinet rather than allow these garrisons to be strengthened. You corn
Page 122
(CHAr. I.
122 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
pelled an officer statiOfle(l at Fort Sumter to return immediately to the
arsenal forty muskets which he had taken to arm his men. You ex-
pressed not to one, but to many, of the most distinguished of our public
characters, whose testimony will be placed upon the record whenever it
is necessary, your anxiety for a peaceful termination of this controversy,
and your willingness not to disturb the military status of the forts if
commissioners should be sent to the Government, whose communications
you promised to submit to Congress. You received and acted on assur-
ances from the highest official authorities of South Carolina that no
attempt would be made to disturb your possession of the forts and prop-
erty of the United States if you would not disturb their existing con-
dition until commissioners had been sent and the attempt to negotiate
had failed. You took from the members of the House of Representatives
a written memorandum that no such attempt should be made, pro-
vided that no re-enforcements shall be sent into those forts, and their
relative military ~tatus shall remain as at present. And, although you
attach no force to the acceptance of such. a paper, although you con-
sidered it as nothing more in effect than the promise of highly honor-
orable gentlemen,~~ as an obligation on one side without corresponding
obligation on the other, it must be remembered (if we are rightly in-
formed) that you were pledged, if you ever did send re-enforcements, to
return it to those from whom you had received it before you executed
your resolution. You sent orders to your officers commanding them
strictly to follow a line of conduct in conformity with such an under-
standing.
Beside all this, you had received formal and official notice from the
governor of South Carolina that we had been appointed commissioners,
and were on our way to Washington. You knew the implied condition
nuder which we came; our arrival was notified to you, and an hour ap-
pointed for an interview. We arrived in Washington on Wednesday at
three oclock, and you appointed an interview with us at one the next
day. Early on that day (Thursday) the news was received here of the
movement of Major Anderson. That news was communicated to you
immediately, and you postponed our meeting nutil half past two oclock
on Friday in order that you might consult your Cabiimet. 0mm Friday
we saw you, amid we called upon you then to redeem your pledge. You
could not deny it.
With the facts we have stated, and in the face of the crowning and
conclusive fact that your Secretary of War had resigned his seat in the
Cabinet upon the publicly-avowed ground that the action of Major An-
derson had violated the pledged faith of the Government, and that unless
the pledge was instantly redeemed he was dishonored, denial was im-
possible. You did not deny it; you do not deny it now; but you seek
to escape from its obligation on two grounds: 1st. That we terminated
all negotiation by demanding, as a preliminary, the withdrawal of the
United States troops from the harbor of Charleston; and, 2d. That the
authorities of South Carolina, instead of asking explanation, and giving
you the opportunity to vindicate yourself, took possession of other prop-
erty of the United States. We wmli examine both.
In the first place, we deny positively that we have ever, in any way,
made any such demand. Our letter is in your possession; it will stand
by this on the record. In it we inform you of the objects of our mission.
We say that it would have been our duty to have assured you of our
readiness to commence negotiation~ with the most earnest and anxious
desire to settle all questions between us amicably and to on r mutual ad-
vantage, but that events had rendered that assurance impossible. W
Page 123
CJiAr. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 123
stated the events, and we said that until some satisfactory explanation of
these events was given us, we could not proceed; and then, having made
this request for explanation, we added: And, in conclusion, we would
urge upon you the immediate withdrawal of the troops from the harbor
of Charleston. Under present circumstances, they are a standing men-
ace, which renders negotiation impossible, & c. Under present cir-
cumstances! What circumstances f Why, clearly, the occupation of
Fort Sumter and the dismantling of Fort Moultrie by Major Anderson,
in the face of your pledges, and without explanation or practical dis-
avowal. And there is nothing in the letter which would or could have
prevented you from declining to withdraw the troops, and offering the
restoration of the status to which you were pledged, if such had been
your desire. It would have been wiser and better, in our opinion, to
have withdrawn the troops, and this opinion we urged upon you; but
we denwinded nothing but such an explanation of the events of the last
twenty-four hours as would restore our confidence in the spfrit with
which the negotiation should be conducted.
In relation to this withdrawal of the troops from tiLe harbor we are
compelled, however, to notice one passage of your letter. Referring to
it, you say: This I cannot do; this I will not do. Such an idea was
never thought of by me in any possible contingency. No allusion to it
had ever been made in any communication between myself and any
human being.~~
In reply to this statement we are compelled to say that your conver-
sation with us left upon our minds the distinct impression that you did
seriously contemplate the withdrawal of the troops from Charleston
Harbor. And in support of this impression we would add that we have
the positive assurance of gentlemen of the highest possible public repu-
tation and the most unsullied integritymen whose name and fame,
secured by long service and patriotic achievement place their testimony
beyond cavilthat such suggestions had been made to and urged upon
you by them, and had formed the subject of more than one earnest dis-
cussion with you. And it was this knowledge that induced us to urge
upon you a policy which had to recommend it its own wisdom and the
weight of such authority.
As to the second point, that the authorities of South Carolina, instead
of asking explanations and giving you the opportunity to vindicate
yourself, took possession of other property of the United States, we
would observe
1. That, even if this were so, it does not avail you for defense, for the
opportunity for decision was afforded you before these facts occurred.
We arrived in Washington on Wednesday; the news from Major Ander-
son reached here early on Thursday, and was immediately coin mnunicated
to you. All that day men of the highest considerationmen who had
striven successfully to lift you to your great office, who had been your
tried and true friends through the troubles of your administration
sought you and entreated you to act, to act at once. They told you that
every hour complicated your position. They only asked you to give the
assurance that, if the facts were sothat if the commander had acted
without and against your orders, and in violation of your pledgesthat
you would restore the status you had pledged your honor to maintain.
You refused to decide. Your Secretary of Waryour immediate and
proper adviser in this whole matterwaited anxiously for your decision,
until he felt that delay was becoming dishonor. More than twelve
hours passed, and two Cabinet meetings had adjourned before you
knew what the authorities of South Carolina had done, and your promp
Page 124
124 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
decision at any moment of that time would have avoided the snbseqnent
complications.
Bnt if yon had known the acts of the anthorities of Sonth Carolina,
should that have prevented yonr keeping your faith? What was the
condition of things? For the last sixty days yon have had in Charles-
ton Harbor not force enough to hold the forts against an equal enemy.
Two of them were empty, one of those two the most important in the
harbor; it could have been taken at any time. You ought to know
better than any man that it would have been taken but for the efforts
of those who put their trust in your honor. Believing that they were
threatened by Fort Snmter especially, the people were with difficulty
restrained from securing, with out blood, the possession of this impor-
tant fortress. After many and reiterated assurances given on your be-
half, which we cannot believe nnauthorized, they determined to forbear,
and in good faith sent on their commissioners to negotiate with you.
They meant you no harm; wished yon no ill. They thought of you
kindly, believed you true, and were willing, as far as was consistent
with duty, to spare you unnecessary and hostile collision.
Scarcely had their commissioners left, than Major Anderson waged
war. No other words will describe his action. It was not a peaceful
change from one fort to another; it was a hostile act in the highest
senseone only justified in the presence of a superior enemy, and iu
imminent peril. He abandoned his position, spiked his guns, burned
his gun carriages, made preparations for the destruction of his post, and
withdrew, under cover of the night, to a safer position. This was war.
No man could have believed (without your assurance) that any officer
could have taken such a step, not only without orders, but against
orders. What the State did was in simple self-defense; for this act,
with all its attending circumstances, was as much war as firing a volley;
and war being thus begun, until those commencing it explained their
action and disavowed their intention, there was no room for delay; and
even at this moment, while we are writing, it is more than probable,
from the tenor of your letter, that re-enforcements are hurrying on
to the conflict, so that when the first gun shall be fired there will have
been, on your part, one continuous, consistent series of actions com-
mencing in a demonstration essentially warlike, supported by regular
re-enforcement, and terminating in defeat or victory.
And all this without the slightest provocation; for, among the many
things which you have said, there is one thing you cannot sayyou
have waited anxiously for news from the seat of war, in hopes that delay
would furnish some excuse for this precipitation. But this tangible
evidence of a design to proceed to a hostile act on the part of the
authorities of South Carolina (which is the only justification of Major
Anderson) you are forced to admit has not yet been alleged. But you
have decided. You have resolved to hold by force what you have ob-
tained through our misplaced confidence, and by refusing to disavow the
action of Major Anderson, have converted his violation of orders into a
legitimate act of your executive authority. Be the issue what it may,
of this we are assured, that if Fort Moultrie has been recorded in history
as a memorial of Carolina gallantry, Fort Sumter will live upon the
succeeding page as an imperishable testimony of Carolina faith.
By your course you have probably rendered civil war inevitable. Be
it so. If you choose to force this issue upon us, the State of South
Carolina will accept it, and relying upon Him who is the God of Justice
as well as the God of Hosts, will endeavor to perform the great duty
which lies before her, hopefully, bravely, and thoroughly
Page 125
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 125
Our mission being one for negotiation and peace, and your note leav-
ing us without hope of a withdrawal of the troops from Fort Sumter, or
of the restoration of the status quo existing at the time of our arrival,
and intimating, as we think, your determination to re-enforce the garrison
in the harbor of Charleston, we respectfully inform you that we propose
returning to Charleston on to-morrow afternoon.
We have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient serv
R. W. BAJINWELL,
J. H. ADAMS,
JAMES L. Commissioners.
(Indorsement.]
EXECUTIVE MAxsiox,
3~ oclock, Wednesday.
This paper, just presented to the President, is of such a character that
he declines to receive it.
Statement of Messrs. Miles and Keitt of what transpired between the Presi-
dent and the South Carolina delegation.
In compliance with the request of the Convention, we beg leave to
make the following statement:
On Saturday, the 8th of December several of the South Carolina del-
egation, including ourselves, waited upon the President. At this time
there was a growing belief that re-enforcements were on the eve of being
sent to the forts in Charleston Harbor.
It was known that the subject was frequently and earnestly discussed
in the Cabinet. It was rumored that General Cass and Mr. Holt were
urgent that re-enforcements should be sent. Upon our being announced
the President, who was then in Cabinet council, came out to us in the
anteroom. We at once entered into a conversation upon the topic
which was so closely occupying his thoughts as well as ours. The Pres-
ident seemed much disturbed and moved. He told us thathe had had
a painful interview with the wife of Major Anderson, who had come on
from New York to see him. She had manifested great anxiety and dis-
tress at the situation of her husband, whom she seemed to consider in
momentary danger of an attack from an excited and lawless mob. The
President professed to feel a deep responsibility resting upon him to
protect the lives of Major Anderson and his command. We told him
that the news that re-enforcements were on their way to Charleston would
be the surest means of provoking what Mrs. Anderson apprehended,
and what he so much deprecated. We said further that we did not be-
lieve that Major Anderson was in any danger of such an attack; that
the general sentiment of the State was against any such proceeding;
that prior to the action of the State Convention, then only ten days off,
we felt satisfied that there would be no attempt to molest the forts in
any way; that after the convention met, while we could not possibly
undertake to say what that body would see fit to do, we yet hoped and
believed that nothing would be done until we had first endeavored, by
duly accredited commissioners, to negotiate for a peaceful settlement of
all matters, including the delivery of the forts, between South Carolina
and the Federal Government. At the same time we again reiterate
Page 126
126 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
our solemn belief that any change in the then existing condition of things
in Charleston Harbor would, in the excited state of feeling at home, in-
evitably precipitate a collision.
The impression made upon us was that the President was wavering
and had not decided what course he would pursue. He said he was
glad to have had this conversation with us, but would prefer that we
should give him a written memorandum of the substance of what we
had said. This we did on Monday, the 10th. It was in these words:
His Excellency JAMES BUCHANAN,
President of the United States:
In compliance with our statement to you yesterday, we now express to you our
strong convictions that neither the constituted authorities, nor any body of the people
of the State of South Carolina, will either attack or molest the United States forts in
the harbor of Charleston previously to the action of the convention, and we hope ahd
believe not until an offer has been made, through an accredited representative, to ne-
gotiate for an amicable arrangement of all matters between the State and Federal
Government, provided that no re-enforcement shall be sent into those forts, and their
relative military status shall remain as at present.
JOHN McQUEEN.
WM. PORCHER MILES.
M. L. BONHAM.
W. W. BOYCE.
LAWRENCE M. KEITT.
WASHINGTON, Deeemler 9, 1860.
The President did not like the word provided because it looked as
if we were binding him while avowing that we had no authority to coin-
mit the convention. We told him that we did not so understand it. We
were expressing our convictions and belief predicated upon the main-
tenance of a certain condition of things, which maintenance was abso-
lutely and entirely in his power. If he maintained such condition, then
we believed that collision would be avoided until the attempt at a peace-
able negotiation had failed. If he did not, then we solemnly assured
him that we believed that collision must inevitably and at once be
precipitated. He seemed satisfied, and said it was not his intention
to send re-enforcements or make any change. We explained to him what
we meant by the words relative military status, as applied to the
forts; mentioned the difference between IMajor Andersons occupying
his then position at Fort Moultrie and throwing himself into Fort Sumter.
We stated that the latter step would be equivalent to re-enforcing the
garrison, and wonld just as certainly as the sending of fresh troops lead
to the result which we both desired to avoid. When we rose to go the
President said in substance, After all, this is a matter of honor among
gentlemen. I do not know that any paper or writing is necessary. We
understand each other.
One of the delegation, just before leaving the room remarked: Mr.
President, you have determined to let things remain as they are, and
not to send re-enforcements; but suppose that you were hereafter to
change your policy for any reason, what then ~ That would put us,
who are willing to use our personal influence to prevent any attack upon
the forts before commissioners are sent on to Washington, in rather an
embarrassing position. ~ said the President, I would first re-
turn you this paper. We do not pretend to give the exact words on
either side, but we are sure we give the sense of both.
The above is a full and exact account of what passed between the
President and the delegation. The President, in his letter to our com-
missioners, tries to give the impression that our understanding or
~~agreement~~ was not a ~~pledge.~~ We confess we are not sufficiently
versed in the wiles of diplomacy to feel the force of this distinctio
Page 127
CHAP. LI
127
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
without a djfference. Nor can we understand how, in a matter of
honor among gentlemen, in which no paper or writing is necessary,~~
the very party who was willing to put it on that high footing can honor-
ably descend to mere verbal criticism to purge himself of what all gen-
ticinen and men of honor must consider a breach of faith. The very
fact that we (the Representatives from South Carolina) were not author-
ized to commit or pledge the State, were not treating with the Presi-
dent as accredited ministers with full powers, but as gentlemen, assum-
ing, to a certain extent, the delicate task of undertaking to foreshadow
the course and policy of the State, should have made the President the
more ready to strengthen our hands to bring about and carry out that
course and policy which he professed to have as ~nnch at heart as we
had. While we were not authorized to say that the Convention would
not order the occupation of the forts immediately after secession, and
prior to the sending on of commissioners, the President, as commander-
in-chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, could positively
say that so long as South Carolina abstained from attacking and seiz-
ing the forts, he would not send re-enforcetnents to them, or allow their
relative military status to be changed.
We were acting in the capacity of gentlemen holding certain promi-
nent positions, and anxious to exert such influence as we might possess
to effect a peaceful solution of pending l)olitical difficulties, and prevent,
if possible, the horrors of war. The President was acting in a double
capacitynot only as a gentleman whose influence in carrying ~ut his
share of the understanding or agreement was potential, but as the head
of the Army, and therefore having the absolute control of the whole
matter of re-enforcing or transferring the garrison at Charleston.
But we have dwelt long enough upon this point. Suffice it to say
that conside1ing the President as bound in honor, if not by treaty stip-
ulations, not to make any change in the forts or to send re-enforce-
ments to them unless they were attacked, we of the delegation who
were elected to the Convention felt equally bound in honor to do every-
thing on our part to prevent any premature collision. This Convention
can bear us witness as to whether or not we endeavored honorably to
carry out our share of the agreement.
The published debates at the very commencement of the session con-
tain the evidence of our good faith. We trusted the President. We
believed his wishes concurred with his policy, and that both were di-
rected to avoiding any inauguration of hostilities. We were confirmed
in our confidence, and reassured in our belief by a significant event
which took place subsequent to our interview. He allowed his premier
Cabinet officer, an old and tried friend, to resign rather than yield to his
solicitations for the re-enforcement of the garrison at Charleston. We
urged this as a convincing proof of his firmness and sincerity. But how
have we been deceived! The news of Major Andersons coup produced
a sudden and unexpected change in the Presidents policy. While de-
claring that his withdrawal from Fort Moultrie to Fort Sumter was
without orders, and contrary to orders, he yet refused for twelve hours
to take any action in the matter. For twelve hours, therefore, without
any excuse, he refused to redeem his plighted word. No subsequent
acts on the part of our State, no after reasons, can wipe away the stain
which he suffered to rest upon his honor as a gentleman~ while those
hours, big with portentous events, rolled slowly by. lli~ Secretary of
War, impatient of a delay, every moment of which he felt touched his
own honor, resigned. He did so solely on the ground that tht~ faith of
the Government, solemnly pledged, was broken, if it failed promptly t
Page 128
128 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
undo what had been done contrary to its wishes, against its settled policy
and in violation of its distinct agreement. The President accepted his
resignation without comment. He did not attempt to disabuse the mind
of his Secretary as to what was the true position of the Government.
What a spectacle does the Presidents vacillating and disingennous
course present! He allows one Secretary to resign rather than abandon
a policy ~which he has agreed upon. Scarcely have a few short weeks
elapsed, and he accepts the resignation of another rather than adhere
to that very policy. He makes an agreement with gentlemen which,
while he admits that they have faithfully kept it on their part, he him-
self evades and repudiates. And this he does rather than redress a
wrong, correct an errorwhat he himself considers an errorcommitted
by a subordinate, without his orders and contrary to his wishes! It was
at least due to Mr. Floyd, who, as one of his Cabinet, had officially and
personally stood by his administration from its very commencement
through good report and through evil reportto have explained to him
that he ~~as,in the Presidents opinion, laboring under a misapprehen-
sion; at least to have said to him, You are mistaken about this matter;
do not leave me on a false ~ But no; he coldly, ungraciously, yet
promptly, receives the resignation without a syllable of remonstrance,
and thus tacitly but unequivocally accepts without shame the issue pre-
sented. He does not deny that the faith of his Government is pledged,
but he deliberately refuses to redeem it.
WM. POIICHEIR MILES.
LAWRENCE M. KEJTT.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
Washington, January 2, 1861.
Memorandum of arrangemcnts.*
Telegram sent to Mr. A. H. Schultz, 64 Cedar street, P. 0. box 3462~
New York City, that his propositions are entertained, and that a staff
officer will be in the city to-morrow evening to conclude arrangements.
Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas is directed, first, to satisfy himself that
Mr. Schultzs agency is reliable, then to cause the steamer to be pre-
pared for sea as soon as practicable, provided the terms be reasonable;
then to cause two hundred well-instructed men with, say, three officers,
to be embarked from Governors Island, with three months subsistence,
including fresh beef and vegetables, and ample ammunition; also, one
hundred extra stand of arms. Instructions to be sent by Colonel Thomas
in writing to Major Anderson that should a fire likely to prove injurious
be opened upon any vessel bringing re-enforcements or supplies, or
upon her boats~ from any battery in the harbor, the guns of Fort Sumter
may be employed to silence such fire, and the same in case of like firing
upon Fort Sumter itself.
The orders to the steamer and the troops on board will strictly enjoin
complete concealment of the presence of the latter when approaching
the bay; Major Anderson to be warned to stand on his guard against
all telegrams, and to be informed that measures will soon be taken to
enable him to correspond with the Government by sea and WilmThgton,
N. C.
Colonel Thomas is further directed to inform Major Anderson that his
* In the handwriting of General Scott
Page 129
CHAr. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 129
conduct meets with the emphatic approbation of the highest in authority;
Major Anderson to be also informed that further reentorcements will be
sent him if necessary.
Lieut. Col. LORENZO THoMAs,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Washington, D. C.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, January 3, 18131.
Hon. BENJAMIN STANTON,
Chairman Committee on Military Affairs, House of Representatives:
SIR: In answer to your letter, asking for information on certain points
specified in a resolution adopted by the Committee on Military Affairs
of the House of Representatives on the 18th nltiino, I have the honor
to state as follows:
According to the latest report of the Engineer officer having charge
of the construction of the defenses of the harbor of Charleston, every-
thing practicable had been done to place Fort Moultrie in an eflicient
condition, and, with a proper garrison, it was (teemed susceptible of an
energetic defense. There were then employed at that work an officer and
one hundred and twenty workmen, independent of regular garrisou.*
On the evening of the 26th ultimo Maj. Robert Anderson, First Artil-
lery, in command of the troops in Charleston Harbor, apprehensive of
the safety of his command from the insecurity of the fort, and having
reason to believe that the South Carolinians contemplated or were pre-
paring to proceed to a hostile act against him, and desiring to prevent
a collision and effusion of blood, evacuated Fort Moultrie, after leaving
orders for spiking the cannon and disalling some of the carriages, and
removed his forces to Fort Sumter, where they now are. Castle Pinek-
ney w s t the date of the latest report in good condition as regards
preparation, and with a proper garrison as defensible as it can be made.
One officer and thirty workmen were engaged in the repair of the
cisterns, replacing decayed banquettes,. and attending to other matters
of detail.
Since the date of the reports referred to, Fort Moultrie and Castle
Piuckney have been taken possession of by troops of the State of South
Carolina, acting nuder the orders of the governor, and are now held by
those troops, with all the armament and other public property therein
at the time of their seizure. I inclose a statement (No. 1) of the number
and description of ordnance and arms at the date of the last returns at
Fort Moultrie, Castle Piuckney, and Charleston Arsenal, respectively.
That arsenal, with all its contents, was also taken possession of oii the
30th ultimo by an armed body of Sonth Carolina troops, acting under
orders of the governor of the State, as represented in the following
report of Frederick C. Humphreys, military storekeeper of ordnance,
in charge, viz:
This arsenal was taken by force of arms by the militia of South Carolina, by order
of governor Pickens. The commanding officer was allowed to salute his flag before
lowering it with one gun for each State now in the Union (thirty-two), and to take it
with him, and the detachment to occupy the quarters until instruction from Washing-
ton can be obtained.
At that time the force under his control consisted of nine enlisted
soldiers of ordnance and six hired men.
See Dc Russy to Floyd, December 20, 1S60, p. 99
Page 130
ICHAP. I.
130 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
The other information asked for in regard to the number and descrip-
tion of arms distributed since the 1st day of January, 1860, and to
whom and at what price, will be found in the accompanying statements
(Nos. 2 and 3) from the Ordnance Bureau.* Jt is deemed proper to state,
in further explanation of statement No. 2, that where no distribution
appears to have beeu made to a State or Territory, or where the amount
of the distribution is small, it is because such State or Territory has not
called for all the arms due ou its quotas, and remains a creditor for
dues not distributed, which can be obtained at any time on requisitiou
therefor.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, ~. HOLT,
Secretary of War ad interim.
[Thclosuro No. 1.]
ORDNANCE OFFICE,
Washington, December 21, 1860.
Fort Monltrie: 14 32-pounder guns, iron; 16 24-pounder guns, iron;
10 8-inch colnmbiads, iron; 5 8-inch sea-coast howitzers, iron; 4 24-
pounder flank howitzers, iron; 2 12-pounder field howitzers, brass; 4
6-pounder field guns, brass. Total, 55.
Castle Pinckney: 4 42-pounder guns, iron; 14 24-pounder guns, iron;
4 8-inch sea-coast howitzers, iron. Total, 22.
United States Arsenal: 2 6-pounder field guns, old iron; 5 24-pounder
field howitzers, old iron; 502 muskets, flint-lock, caliber .69; 5,720 same
altered to percussion; 11,693 muskets made as percussion, caliber .69;
2,808 rifles, made as percussion, caliber .54; 6 same, altered with long-
range sights; 566 Halls rifles, flint-lock; 4 carbines, percussion, rifled;
9 United States percussion carbines; 815 pistols, flint-lock; 300 pistols,
made as percussion. Total, 22,430. WM. MAYNADIER,
Captain of Ordnance.
NEW YORK, January 4, 1861.
Lieut. Gen. WINFIELD SCO~T,
Washington, D. C.:
DEAR GENERAL: I had an interview with Mr. Schultz at 8 oclock
last evening, and found him to be, as you supposed, the commission,
and together we visited Mr. M. 0. Roberts. The latter looks exclu-
sively to the dollars, whilst Mr. S. is acting for the good of his country.
Mr. U. required $1,500 per day for ten days, besides the cost of 300 tons
of coal, which I declined; but, after a long conversation, I became sat-
isfied that the movement could be made with his vessel, the Star of the
West, without exciting suspicion. I finally chartered her at $1,250
per day. She is running on the New Orleans route, and will clear for
that port; but no notice will be put in the papers, and persons seeing
the ship moving from the dock will suppose she is on her regular trip.
Major Eaton, commissary of subsistence, fully eiiters into my views. He
will see Mr. Roberts, hand him a list of the supplies with the places
where they may be procured, and the purchases will be made on the
ships account. In this way no public machinery will be used.
* Nos. 2 and 3 not found
Page 131
OnAr. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 131
To-night I pass over to Governors Island to do what is necessary,
i. e., have 300 stand of arms and ammunition on the wharf, and 200 men
ready to march on board Mr. Schultzs steam-tugs abont nightfall to-
morrow, to go to the steamer, passing very slowly down the bay. I shall
cut off all communication between the island and the cities until Tues-
day morning, when I expect the steamer will be safely moored at Fort
Sumter.
I have seen and conversed with Colonel Scott, and also saw your
daughter at your house. After leaving you, I obtained the key of the
outer door of the office, but could nowhere find the key of your door or
of mine, so failed to get the chart. This is of little moment, as the cap-
tain of the steamer is perfectly familiar with the entrance of Charleston.
I telegraphed you this morning, as follows:
Arrangements made as proposed; to leave to-morrow evening; send map.
I will now leave the office, where I am writing, to proceed to the
island.
Very sincerely, General, your obedient servant,
L. THOMAS,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
New York, January 5, 1861.
Maj. T. H. HOL~IEs,
Eighth Infantry,
Superintendent Recruiting Service, Fort Columbus:
SIR: By direction of the General-in-Chief, you will detach this even-
ing two hundred of the best-instructed men at Fort Columbus, by the
steamship Star of the West, to re-enforce the garrison at Fort Sumter,
South Carolina.
They will be furnished with arms, and, if possible, one hundred rounds
of ammunition per man. Orders will be given to the proper officers of
the staff department to furnish one hundred stand of spare arms and
subsistence for three months.
The officers assigned to duty with the detachment are Lieuts. C. IR.
Woods, Ninth Infantry; W. A. Webb, Fifth Infantry; C. W. Thomas,
First Infantry, and Asst. Surg. P. G. S. Ten Broeck, Medical Depart-
ment, all of whom will report for duty to Major Anderson, commanding
Fort Sumter.
Yours,
L. THOMAS.
HEADQUARTERS, January 5, 1861.
First Lieut. CHARLES R. WOODS,
Ninth infantry, Fort Columbus:
Sin: The steamship Star of the West has been chartered to take two
hundred recruits from Fort Columbus to Fort Sumter, South Carolina,
to re-enforce the garrison at that post. You are placed in command of
the detachment, assisted by Lieuts. W. A. Webb, Fifth Infantry ~ C.
W. Thomas, First Infantry, and Asst. Surg. P. G. S. Ten Broeck, Medi-
cal Department. Arms and ammunition for your men will be placed on
the steamer and three months supply of subsistence.
The duty upon which you are now placed by direction of the Gen
Page 132
132 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
eral-in-Chief will require great care and energy on your part to execute
it successfully, for it is important that all your movements be kept as
secret as possible. Accordingly, on approaching the Charleston bar,
you will place below decks your entire force, in order that only the ordi-
nary crew may be seen by persons from the shore or on boarding the
vessel. Every precaution must be resorted to to prevent being fired
upon by batteries erected on either Sullivans or James Island.
Yours, L. THOMAS.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
New York, January 5, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Commanding Fort Sumter:
Sin: In accordance with the instructions of the General-in-Chief I
yesterday chartered the steamship Star of the West to re-enforce your
small garrison with two hundred well-instructed recruits from Fort
Columbus, under First Lient. C. R. Woods, Ninth Infantry, assisted by
Licuts. W. A. Webb, Fifth Infantry; C. NY. Thomas, First Infantry, and
Asst. Surg. P. G. S. Ten Broeck, Medical Department, all of whom you
will retain until further orders. Besides arms for the men, one hundred
spare arms and all the cartridges in the arsenal on Governors Island
will be sent; likewise, three months subsistence for the detachment
and six months desiccated and fresh vegetables, with three or four days
fresh beef for your entire force. Further re-enforcements will be sent if
necessary.
Should a fire, likely to prove injurious, be opened upon any vessel
bringing re-enforcements or supplies, or upon tow-boats within the reach
of your guns, they may be employed to silence such fire; and you may
act in like manner in case a fire is opened upon Fort Sumter itself
The General-in-Chief desires me to communicate the fact that your
conduct meets with the emphatic approbation of the highest in au-
thority.
You are warned to be upon your guard against all telegrams, as false
ones may be attempted to be passed upon you. Measures will soon be
taken to enable you to correspond with the Government by sea and
Wilmington,N. C.
You will send to Fort Columbus by the return of the steamer all your
sick, otherwise inefficient, officers and enlisted men. Fill up the two
companies with the recruits now sent, and muster the residue as a de-
tachment.
I am, sir, very resjectfully, your obedient servant,
L. THOMAS,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., January 5, 1861.
To the PAYMASTER-GENERAL:
SIR: The governor of this State assumes the authority to interfere
with my official duties. Mr. Pressley, the assistant treasurer, informed
me a few days since that he had orders from the governor not to pay my
checks to any one stationed at Fort Sumter, and asked me if I would
give any more hereafter to which I replied I would not refuse to pay
accounts presented to me from there or any other place as long as I ha
Page 133
CHAP. I.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 133
funds. I heard nothing more of the matter until this morning, when 1
called at the sub-treasury office. The clerk told me (Mr. Pressley not
being there) that he had orders not to pay checks. I then expressed a
wish to withdraw my funds, and was refused for the presenthowever,
asked to call again on Monday, when the assistant treasurer would be
there himseW My situation here as an officer of the Army is very un-
pleasant, and has been for some weeks past. I do hope a change will
soon be made.
Very respectfully, & c.,
GEG. C. flUTTER,
Paymaster, U~ S. Army.
[Indorsement.]
PAYMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE,
January 8, 1861.
The Paymaster-General respectfully submits, for the information of
the Commanding General of the Army, the within copy of a letter from
Major flutter, reporting interference on the part of the governor of
South Carolina with his official duties.
BENJ. F. LARNED,
Paymaster- General.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 6, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: Through the courtesy of Governor Pickens I am enabled
to make this communication, which will be taken to Washington by
my brother, Larz Anderson, esq. I have the honor to report my com-
mand in excellent health and in tine spirits. We are daily adding to
the strength of our position by closing up embrasures which we shall
not use, mounting guns, & c. The South Carolinians are also very
active in erecting batteries and preparing for a conflict, which I pray
God may not occur. Batteries have been constructed bearing upon
and, I presume; commanding the entrance to the harbor. They are
also to-day busily at work on a battery at Fort Johnson, intended to
fire against me. My position will, should there be no treachery among
the workmen, whom we are compelled to retain for the present, enable
me to hold this fort against any force which can be brought against me,
and it would enable me, in the event of a war, to annoy the South Car-
olinians by preventing them from throwing supplies into their new
posts except by the out-of.the-way passage through Stono River. At
present, it would be dangerous and difficult for a vessel from without
to enter the harbor, in consequence of the batteries which are already
erected and being erected. I shall not ask for any increase of my com-
inand, because I do not know what the ulterior views of the Govern-
ment are. We are now, or soon will be, cut off from all communica-
tion, unless by means of a powerful fleet, which shall have the ability
to carry the batteries at the mouth of this harbor.
Trusting in God that nothing will occur to array a greater number of
States than have already taken ground against the Gemieral Govern-
ment,
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Lliajor, First Artillery, Gommanding
Page 134
134
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. L
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
Washington, January 7, 1861.
COMMAND1N~ OFFICER, DETACHMENT U. S. ARMY,
On board steamship Star of the West,
Sup osed to be near Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: This communication is sent through the commander of the U. S.
steam sloop-of war Brooklyn.
His mission is twofold: First, to afford aid and succor in case your
ship be shattered or injured; second, to convey this order of recall for
your detachment in case it cannot land at Fort Sumter, to proceed to
Fort Monroe, Hampton Roads, and there await further orders.
In case of your retnrn to Hampton Roads, send a telegraphic message
here at once from Norfolk.
Yours, very respectfully,
W. SCOTT.
P. S.On arrival at Fort Monroe, land your troops and discharge
the ship;
W. SCOTT.
No. 17.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 9, 1861.
(Received A. (1. 0., January 12.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to send herewith the correspondence
which took place to-day between the governor of South Carolina and
myself in relation to the firing by his batteries on a vessel bearing our
flag. Lieutenant Talbot, whose health is very much impaired, will be
the bearer of these dispatches, and he will be enabled to give you full
information in reference to this and to all other matters.
I am, colonel, yonr obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosures.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 9, 1861.
To his Excellency the GOVERNOR OF SOUTH CAROLINA:
SIR: Two of your batteries fired this morning np~n an unarmed
vessel bearing the flag of my Government. As I have not been notified
that war has been declared by South Carolina against the Government
of the United States, I cannot but think that this hostile act was com-
mitted without your sanction or anthority. Under that hope, and that
alone, did I refrain from opening fire upon your batteries. I have the
honor, therefore, respectfully to ask whether the above mentioned act
one, I bell eve, without a parallel in the history of our country or of any
other civilized governmentwas committed in obedience to your in-
structions, and to notify you, if it be not disclaimed, that I must regard
it as an act of war, and that I shall not, after a reasonable time for the
return of my messenger, permit any vessels to pass within range of the
guns of my fort. In order to save, as far as in my power, thc shedding
of blood, I beg that you will have due notification of this my decision
given to all concerned. Hoping, however, that your answer may be
such as will jnstify a further continuance of forbearance upon my part,
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Gommanding
Page 135
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 135
STATE 0F SOUTH CAROLINA, EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Headquarters, Charleston, January 9, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
Commanding Fort Sumter:
SIR: Your letter has been received. In it you make certain state-
ments which very plainly show that you have not been fully informed
by your Government of the precise relations which now exist between it
and the State of South Carolina. Official information has been commu-
nicated to the Government of the United States that the political con-
nection heretofore existing between the State of South Carolina and the
States which were known as the United States had ceased, and that the
State of South Ca~olina had resumed all the power it had delegated to
the United States under the compact known as the Constitution of the
United States. The right which the State of South Carolina possessed
to change the political relations which it held with other States under
the Constitution of the United States has been solemnly asserted by the
people of this State in convention, and now does not admit of discussion.
In anticipation of the ordinance of secession, of which the President of
the United States has received official notification, it was understood by
him that sending any re-enforcement of the troops of the United States
in the harbor of Charleston would be regarded by the constituted au-
thorities of the State of South Carolina as an act of hostility, and at the
same time it was understood by him that any change in the occul)ation
of the forts in the harbor of Charleston would in like manner be regarded
as an act of hostility. Either or both of these events, occurring during
the period in which the State of South Carolina constituted a part of the
United States, was then distinctly notified to the President of the United
States as an act or acts of hostility; because either or both would be
regarded, and could only be intended, to dispute the right of the State
of South Carolina to that political independence which she has always
asserted and will always retain. Whatever would have been, during
the continuance of this State as a member of the United States, an act
of hostility, became much more so when the State of South Carolina had
dissolved the connection with the Government of the United States.
After the secession of the State of South Carolina, Fort Sumter contin-
ued in the possession of the troops of the United States. How that fort
is at this time in the possession of the troops of the United States it is
not now necessary to discuss. It will suffice to say that the occupancy
of that fort has been regarded by the State of South Carolina as the first
act of positive hostility committed by the troops of the United States
within the limits of this State, and was in this light regarded as so un-
equivocal that it occasioned the termination of the negotiations then
pending at Washington between the Commissioners of the State of
South Carolina and the President of the United States. The attempt
to re-enforce the troops now at Fort Sumter, or to retake and resume
possession of the forts within the waters of this State, which you aban-
doned, after spiking the guns placed there, and doing otherwise much
damage, cannot be regarded by the authorities of the State as indicative
of any other purpose than the coercion of the State by the arlne(l force
of the Government. To repel such an attempt is too plainly its duty to
allow it to be discussed. But while defending its waters, the authori-
ties of the State have been careful so to conduct the affairs of the State
that no act, however necessary for its defense, should lead to an useless
waste of life. Special agents, therefore, have been oft the bar to warn
all approaching vessels, if armed or unarmed, and having troops to r
Page 136
136
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
[CHAr. I.
enforce the forts on board, not to enter the harbor of Charleston, and
special orders have been given to the commanders of all forts and bat-
teries not to fire at such vessels until a shot fired across their bows
would warn them of the prohibition of the State. Under these circum-
stances, the Star of the West, it is understood, this morning attempted
to enter this harbor, with troops on board, and having been notified that
she could not enter, was fired into. The act is perfectly justified by me.
Jn regard to your threat in regard to vessels in the harbor, it is only
neces ary to say that you must judge of your own responsibilities. Your
position in this harbor has been tolerated by the authorities of the State,
and while the act of which you complain is in perfect consistency with
the rights and duties of the State, it is not perceived how far the con-
duct which you propose to adopt can find a parallel in the history of any
country, or be reconciled with any other purpose of your Government
than that of imposing upon this State the condition of a conquered
province.
F. W. PICKENS.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 9, 1861.
General TOTTEN:
M~ DEAR Sin: I have only a moment to write by Lieutenant Meade [f],
who comes with dispatches from Major Anderson. I wish to assure you,
however, that the officers of your corps are doing everything in their
power to make this work impregnable, even with the present small
garrison of seventy men. We even mount all the guns, as we can do it
much more rapidly than the garrison. We have twenty-niuc guns on
the first tier and eleven on the barbette tier. Four 8-inch columbiads
are ready to mount to-morrow. I shall place the 10-inch on the parade
as mortars.
The firing upon the Star of the West this morning by the batteries
on Morris Island opened the war, but Major Anderson hopes that the
delay of sending to Washington may possibly prevent civil war. The
hope, although a small one, may be the thread that prevents the sunder-
ing of the Union. We are none the less determined to defend ourselves
to the last extremity. I am in want of funds, and would respectfully
urge that as soon as possible $15,000 may be placed to my credit in ~ew
York. In haste.
Very respectfully,
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
P. S.I beg to refer you to Lieutenant Meade [?] for particulars.
J. G. F.
[Memorandum.]
Received January 12 by Lieutenant Talbot, U. S. Army.
WAR DEPARTMENT, January 10, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Commanding at Fort Sumter, S. C.:
SIR: Your dispatches to No. 16, inclusive, have been received. Before
the receipt of that of 31st December,* announcing that the Government
* Received January 5, 1861, p. 120
Page 137
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 137
might re-enforce you at its leisure, and that you regarded yourself safe
in your present position, some two hundred and fifty instructed recruits
had been ordered to proceed from Governors Island to Fort Sumter on
the Star of the West, for the purpose of strengthening the force under
your command. The prQbability is. from the current rumors of to-day,
that this vessel has been fired into by the South Carolinians, and has
not been able to reach you. To meet all contingencies, the Brooklyn
has been dispatched, with instructions not to cross the bar at the harbor
of Charleston, but to afford to the Star of the West and those on board
all the assistance they may need, and in the event the recruits have not
efthcted a landing at Fort Sumter they will return to Fort Monroe.
I avail myself of the occasion to express the great satisfaction of the
Government at the forbear nec, discretion, and firmness with which you
have acted, amid the perplexing and difficult circumstances in which
you have been placed. You will continue, as heretofore, to act strictly
on the defensive; to avoid, by all means compatible with the safety of
your command, a collision with the hostile forces by which you are sur-
rounded. But for the movement, so promptly and brilliantly executed,
by which you transferred your forces to Fort Sumter, the probability is
that ere this the defenselessness of your position would have invited an
attack, which, there is reason to believe, was contemplated, if not in
active preparation, which must have led to the effusion of blood, that
has been thus so happily prevented. The movement, therefore, was in
every way admirable, alike for its humanity f and] patriotism, as for its
soldiership.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. HOLT,
& cretary of War ad interim.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 12, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The sudden resolution to send a joint commission to Wash-
ington enables me to write only a few lines to tell you that my operations
are going steadily on. Seventeen guns are now mounted on the bar-
bette tier, and in good working order. Four of these are coluinbiads.
Owing to the breaking of the truck, we did not accomplish much yes-
terday beyond hoisting carriages to the terre-plein (upper). My force
is gradually growing less and less, owing to the fears of the approach-
ing conflict among the men. By tonight I mnay not have more than a
dozen men for work. This is unavoidable, because it will not do to force
the fearful or seditious men to reumain. I shall, however, get nearly all
the guns up before all leave. Yesterday a commission came from Gov-
ernor Pickens to summon this fort to surrender. It was composed of
General Jamison, Secretary of War, and Judge McGrath, Secretary of
State of South Carolina. They subsequently (during the conference
with u~) moderated the matter somewhat, so as to have it understood
that their demand was not to alter the present status. The major pro-
posed to send a joint commission to Washington, which is accepted this
morning, and Lieutenant Hall leaves for this purpose.
I received a dispatch from Mrs. Foster, after her arrival in Washing-
ton, which I understood to mean that I had to my credit there $15,000.
This gives me great satisfaction, for I was becoming embarrassed for
want of funds. You can rely upon my doing all that I can to secur
Page 138
138
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
this work, and to strengthen the defense. I am most efficiently snp-
ported by Lieutenants Snyder and Meade, who are exerting themselves
to the utmost, and I hope the Department will give them full credit for
their zeal and efficiency.
The temper of the people of this State is hecoming every day more
bitter, and I do not see how we can avoid a bloody conflict. I wish,
therefore, to say to you that nearly all of my papers and vouchers are
in my office in town, whence I have not been permitted to remove thetn.
All of my personal effects are in the house that I occupied on Sullivans
Island, with the exception of some few things that I have here. The
suddenness of the movement over here did not permit me au oppor-
tunity to remove anything, and my active operations in the matter did
not incline the authorities in my favor so as to permit me to remove
anything afterwards. I shall, however, endeavor to leave everything
relating to my responsibilities and accounts in as good order as possible.
You must excuse my referring to these matters, which are partly per-
sonal, because if we are attacked, it may be by overpowering numbers,
and I have made up my mind to defend the work, as far as I am con-
cerned, to the last extremity. The main ship channel was closed yester-
day morning by sinking four hulks across it, upon the bar. Last night
a good deal of work was done on Fort Moultrie to defile it from the
fire of this fort. There is a large steamer outside of the bar, apparently
a man-of-war.
The health of the command is good, and their spirits excellent. In
haste.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
CHARLESTON, S. C., January 12, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, U. S. Army:
Colonel ilayne, of South Carolina, is bearer of dispatches from the
governor of his State. I accompany him from Major Anderson. We
start on the two oclock train this afternoon.
NORMAN J. HALL.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January14, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that the facilities for mail
communication between this fort and the city of Charleston have been
restored by order of Governor Pickeus. The arrangement is for one of
my boats to receive the mail at Fort Johnson, whither it is to be brought
every day at 12 oclock, and to deliver the mail from the fort at the same
time, to be taken to the office in the city. The reason assigned for this
particular arrangement is, that it will avoid all chances for rencounters
and bloodshed between our boats crews and riotous persons on the
wharves in the city. All letters from the Departument will, in all proba-
bility, be received.
Since the hasty letter sent by Lieutenant Hall, nothing of marked
importance has transpired. The Carolinians are hard at work on Fort
Moultrie raising sand.bag and earth merlons between all the guns that
look in this direction, iu a similar manner to the merlons that I con
Page 139
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. 139
structed on the front facing the sand hills. The force on the island is
about 700 men, as I saw them drilling this evening in about that number.
I think that they have transferred several of the guns from Fort
Moultrie and Castle Pinckney to the batteries on Morris Island, with the
object of strengthening them, since they fiave found by the firing on the
Star of the West that they are well placed. There is another battery
on the upper end of Sullivans Island, out of the reach of our guns, to
guard the Maffitt Channel. The main ship channel is so much obstructed
by the four hulks that they sunk in it on the 11th that vessels lind the
greatest difficulty in getting out or in, even with the harbor pilots, who
know their position exactly. The middle channel is the only one that
can be nsed with safety by vessels that wish to run the gauntlet with
re-enforcements for us. I do not, however, consider it good policy to
send re-enforcements here at this time. We can hold our own as long
as it is necessary to do so. If any force is sent here it must have the
strength and facilities for landing and carrying the batteries on Morris
or Sullivans Island. The former will be the easier operation. But if
the whole South is to secede from the Union, a conflict here and a civil
war can only be avoided by giving up this fort sooner or later. We are,
however, all prepared to go all lengths in its defense if the Government
requires it. We have now, besides the twenty-nine guns mounted in
the first tier (three 8-inch howitzers, five 42-pounders, and twenty-one
32-pounders), nineteen guns mounted on the third or barbette tier (six
8-inch columbiads, five 8-inch sea-coast howitzers, two 42-pounders, and
~ix 24-pounders). These are all well placed for firing on Fort Moultrie,
Morris Island, and Fort Johnson. As fast as the remaining guns are
monnted they will be distributed with the same object. Every precan-
tion has been taken to secure the shutters for the embrasures and loop-
holes and the main gates. The latter have been re-enforced by a solid
wall three feet thick by five feet high, with a narrow doorway of 20 inch
width to serve for passage, and also for embrasure of an 8-inch howitzer
in case of attack. A discharge of canister from this gun will sweep the
wharf. The lanyard of this gun is carried back through a hole in the
second gate. The lanyards of the two guns to sweep the landing to the
right and left are also brought inside, to insure those guns being fired,
even if the retiring guard forgets to do it while npon the outside. A
large number of shells have been arranged with friction tubes to be
used with long lanyards, so that the shell, being rolled over or suffered
to fall from the edge of the parapet, will explode as it gets to the end
of the line. The room over the gateway has also been supplied with
hand grenades.
The weather since the command has occnpied the fort has been very
bad, and the whole force, including the camp followers, have been suf-
fered to quarter in the officers quarters. This, together with the firing
of the guns at the gateway without raising the windows, by which most
of the glass on the gorge and many of the sashes were broken, has
caused considerable damage to the quarters. I regard it, however, as of
small moment in comparison with the necessity for keeping the command
well housed and also as well warmed as the small stock of fuel will
allow. The damage to the windows has been repaired temporarily. I
have regarded any expense not strictly required for the defense as
unnecessary nuder the present aspect of affairs.
During the continuance of the present arrangements for the mail I will
keep you fully informed of everything that transpires.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
(J~ptain, Engineers
Page 140
140 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
WAR DEPARTMENT, January 16, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Gommanding Fort Sumter:
SIR: Your dispatch No. 17, covering your correspondence with the
governor of South Carolina, has been received from the hand of Lieu-
tenant Talbot. You rightly designate the firing into the Star of the
West as an act of war, and one which was actually committed with-
out the slightest provocation. Had their act been perpetrated by a
foreign nation, it would have been your imperative duty to have resented
it with the whole force of your batteries. As, however, it was the work
of the government of South Carolina, which is a member of this con-
federacy, and was prompted by the passions of a highly-inflamed popu-
lation of citizens of the United States, your forbearance to return the
fire is fully approved by the President. Unfortunately, the Govern-
ment had not been able to make known to you that the Star of the
West had sailed from New York for your relief and hence, when she
made her appearance in the harbor of Charleston, you did not feel the
force of the obligation to protect her approach as you would naturally
have done had this information reached you.
Your late dispatches, as well as the very intelligent statement of
Lieutenant Talbot, have relieved the Government of the apprehensions
previously entertained for your safety. In consequence, it is not its
purpose at present to re-enforce you. The attempt to do so would, no
doubt, be attended by a collision of arms and the effusion of blooda
national calamity which the President is most anxious, if possible, to
avoid. You will, therefore, report frequently your condition, an dthe
character and activity of the preparations, if any, which may be being
made for an attack upon the fort, or for obstructing the Government in
any endeavors it may make to strengthen your command.
Should your dispatches be of a nature too important to be intrusted
to the mails, you will convey them by special messengers. Whenever,
in your judgment, additional supplies or re-enforcements are necessary
for your safety, or for a successful defense of the fort, you will at once
communicate the fact to this Department, and a prompt and vigorous
effort will be made to forward them.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. HOLT.
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, January 16, 1861.
Lient. Gen. WINFIELD SCOTT:
DEAR GENERAL: The habitual frankness of your character, the deep
interest you take in everything that concerns the public defense, your
expressed desire that I should hear and understand your viewsthese
reasons, together with an earnest wish to know my own duty and to do
it, induce me to beg you for a little light, which perhaps you alone can
shed, upon the present state of our affairs.
1. Is it the duty of the Government to re-enforce Major Anderson ~i
2. If yes, how soon is it necessary that those re-enforcements should be
there ~
3. What obstacles exist to prevent the ~ending of such re-enforcements
at any time when it may be necessary to do so ~
I trust you will not regard it as presumption in me if I give you the
crude notions which I myself have already formed out of very imperfect
materials
Page 141
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 141
A statement of my errors, if errors they be, will enable you to correct
them the more easily.
J. It seems now to be settled that Major Anderson and his command
at Fort Sumter are not to be withdrawn. The United States Govern-
ment is not to surrender its last hold upon its own property in South
Carolina. Major Anderson has a position so nearly impregnable that an
attack upon him at present is wholly improbable, and he is supplied with
provisions which will last him very well for two months. In the mean
time Fort Sumter is invested on every side by the avowedly hostile
forces of South Carolina. It is in a state of siege. They have already pre-
vented communication between its commander and his own Government,
both by sea and land. There is no doubt that they intend to continue
this state of things, as far as it is in their power to do so. In the course
of a few weeks from this time it will become very difficult for him to
hold out. The constant labor and anxiety of his men will exhaust their
physical power, and this exhaustion, of course, will proceed very much
more rapidly as soon as they begin to get short of provision.
If the troops remain in Fort Sumter without any change in their con-
dition, and the hostile attitude of South Carolina remains as it is now,
the question of Major Andersons surrender is one of time only. If he
is not to be relieved,is it not entirely clear that he should be ordered to
surrender at once~ It having been determined that the latter order
shall not be given, it follows that relief must be sent him at some time
before it is too late to save him.
II. This brings me to the second question: When should the re-enforce-
merits and provisions be sent~ Can we justify ourselves in delaying
the performance of that duty~
The authorities of South Carolina are improving every moment, and
increasing their ability to prevent re-enforcement every hour, while every
day that rises sees us with a power diminished to send in the requisite
relief. I think it certain that Major Anderson could be put in posses-
sion of all the defensive powers he needs with very little risk to this
Government, if the efforts were made immediately; but it is impossible
to predict how much blood or money it may cost if it be postponed for
two or three months.
The fact that other persons are to have charge of the Government
before the worst comes to the worst has no influence upon my mind, and
I take it for granted will not be regarded as a just element in making up
your opinion.
The anxiety which an American citizen must feel about any future
event which may affect the existence of the country is not less if he
expects it to occur on the 5th of March than it would be if he knew it
was going to happen on the 3d.
III. I am persuaded that the difficulty of relieving Major Anderson
has been very much magnified to the minds of some persons. From you
I shall be able to ascertain whether I am mistaken or they. I am thor-
oughly satisfied that the battery on Morris Island can give no serious
trouble. A vessel going in where the Star of the West went will not
be within the reach of the battery~s guns longer than from six to ten
minutes. The number of shots that could be fired upon her in that
time may be easily calculated, and I think the chances of her being seri-
ously injured can be demoratrated by simple arithmetic to be very
small. A very unlucky shot might cripple her, to be sure, and there-
fore the risk is something. But then it is a maxim, not less in war than
in peace, that where nothing is ventured nothing can be gained. The
removal of the buoys has undoubtedly made the navigation of the
channel more difficult. But there are pilots outside of Charleston, an
Page 142
142 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
many of the officers of the Navy, who could steer a ship into the harbor
by the natural land marks with perfect safety. This, be it remembered,
is not now a subject of speculation; the actual experiment has been
tried. The Star of the West did pass the battery, and did overcome the
difficulties of the navigation, meeting with no serious trouble from either
cause. They have tried it; we can say probaturn est; and there is an
end to the controversy.
I am convinced that a pirate, or a slaver, or a smuggler, who could
be assured of making five hundred dollars by going into the harbor in
the face of all the dangers which now threaten a vessel bearing the
American flag, would laugh them to scorn, and to one of our naval
officers who has the average of daring, the dangers self were lure
alone.
There really seems to me nothing in the way that ought to stop us
except the guns of Fort Moultrie. If they are suffered to open a fire
upon a vessel bearing re-enforcements to Fort Sumter, they might stop
any other vessel as they stopped the Star of the West. But is it neces-
sary that this intolerable outrage should be submitted tol Would it
not be an act of pure self-defense on the part of Major Anderson to
silence Fort Moultrie, if it be necessary to do so, for the purpose of
insuring the safety of a vessel whose arrival at Fort Sumter is neces-
sary for his protection, and could he not do it effectually l Would the
South Carolinians dare to fire upon any vessel which Major Anderson
would tell them beforehand must be permitted to pass, on pain of his
guns being opened npon her assailants l But suppose it impossible for
an unarmed vessel to pass the battery, what is the difficulty of sending
the Brooklyn or the Macedonian in l I have never heard it alleged that
the latter could not cross the bar, and I think if the fact had been so
it would have been mentioned in my hearing before this time. It will
turn out upon investigation, after all that has been said and sung about
the Brooklyn, that there is water enough there for her. She draws
ordinarily only sixteen and one-half feet, and her draught can be reduced
eighteen inches by putting her upon an even keel. The shallowest
place will give her eighteen feet of water at high tide. In point of fact,
she has crossed that bar more than once. But apart even from these
resources, the Government has at its command three or four smaller ~
steamers of light draught and great speed, which could be armed and
at sea in a few days, and would not be in the least troubled by any
opposition that could be made to their entrance.
It is not, however, necessary to go into these details, with which, I
presume, you are fully acquainted. I admit that the state of things
may be somewhat worse now than they were a week ago, and are prob.
ably getting worse every day; but is not that the strongest reason that
can be given for taking time by the forelock ~?
I feel confident that you will excuse me for making this communica-
tion. I have some responsibilities of my own to meet, and I can discharge
them only when I understand the subject to which they relate. Your
opinion, of course, will be conclusive upon me, for on such a matter I
cannot do otherwise than defer to your better judgment. If you think
it most consistent with your duty to be silent, I shall have no right to
complain.
If you would rather answer orally than make a written reply, I will
meet you either at your own quarters or here in the State Department,
as may best suit your convenience.
I am, most respectfully, yours, & c.,
J. S. BLACK
Page 143
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 143
No. 19.] FonT SUMTER, S. C., January 21, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., January 24.)
Hon. J. HOLT, Secretary of War:
Sin: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letters, dated
the 10th and 19th [16th] instants, and to assure you that I am highly
gratified at the unqualified approbation they contain of the course I felt
it my duty (under Divine guidance, I trust) to pursue in the unexpect-
edly perplexing circumstances by which we were surrounded. I shall
inclose herewith copies of my correspondence with the officials of this
State, and also a copy of the Mercury, which contains an article in refer-
ence to supplies for my command.* You will understand at once the
reasons for my course, which I hope will meet your approval. So many
acts of harshness and of incivility have occurred since my removal from
Fort Moultfie, which I have not deemed proper to notice or report, that
I cannot accept of any civility which may be considered as a favor or an
act of charity. I hope that the Department will approve of my sending
(if the governor will permit it) our women an(l children to New York.
They will be in the way here if we should, unfortunately, be engaged in
hostilities, and they would embarrass me should I deem it proper to
make any sudden move. We are trying daily to strengthen our posi-
tion. We have now fifty-one guns in position, viz: In barbette, four 42-
pounders, three 32-pounders, six 24s, six 8-inch columbiads, and five 8-
inch sea-coast howitzers (24); in casemate, twenty-two 32-pounders and
two 42-pounders, (24); and to guard the gateway, which has been nearly
closed by a heavy stonewall, three 8-inch sea-coast howitzers; and we
are now preparing platforms in the parade for the three 10-inch colum-
biads, which we are unable to raise to their proper positions. I shall
have some of the lower embrasures, in which guns are mounted, closed.
This will make our little command more secure. From the perfect iso-
lation of our position here it is impossible for us to ascertain, with any
degree of certainty, the character or extent of the preparations which
are being made around us. Everything, however, shows that they are
exerting all their energies to prevent the entrance of re-enforcements,
and to prepare for attacking this work. Saturday night and yesterday
(Sunday) they were very actively engaged at work on a battery (coin-
menced Saturday morning) a few hundred yards south of a battery of
three guns constructed within the last three weeks in front of Fort
Johnson barracks. On Cummings Point, Morris Island, quite an ex-
tensive battery or batteries have been constructed within the last week.
We think that there may be both mortars and heavy guns at this point.
We see them moving heavy timbers, which may be intended for the con-
struction of a bomb-proof. Judging from the great quantity of material
which has been landed in that neighborhood, I think it probable that
they may have strengthened the battery which fired on the Star of the
West. The channel she caine in has been closed, pretty effectually 1 im-
agine, by four sunken vessels. Sand hills on Morris Island afford such
safe positions for batteries that I fear we shall have to waste a great
deal of ammunition before we can succeed in dislodging them from its
batteries. Several distant shots haVe been heard from the direction
the mouth of Stono Creek. I presume they have closed that by a
heavy battery. It is reported that there is a battery guarding the en-
trance of the Maffitt Channel, and also that there is a battery of heavy
guns on Sullivans Island (masked from our view by the houses) about
three hundred yards to the west of the fort. Fort Moultrie has been
Article from Mercury not found
Page 144
144 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. LOIJAP. I.
greatly strengthened during the last two weeks. Traverses have been
erected along the the sea front, and merlons, formed of sand bags and
earth, constructed between the guns. These merlons, appai~ently well
built, will afford very good protection for the carriages and men, and
defilade the parade and greater portion of the quarters from our direct
fire. It seems that they have repaired these carriages, and that all the
guns are now in position on the sea front. I am, of course, unable to
state with any accuracy the character of the armament of their batteries
or the number of men they have under arms; we hear that the garrison
on Sullivans Jsland, at Fort Johnson, Castle Pinckney (the parapet of
which is strengthened by sand bags), and on Morris Island amount to
about two thousand men. In reference to my communications with the
Department, you must bear it in mind that that matter is entirely under
the control of the governor of this State, who may, whenever he deems
fit, entirely prohibit my forwarding any letters, or prevent my sending
any messenger, to my Government. I shall, however, as long as I can
do so, send daily a brief note to the Department, the reception of which
will show that the channel is still tpen, and the failure will indicate that
our communication has been cnt off.
Trusting in God that He will be pleased to save us from the horrors
of a civil war,
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commandtng.
[Inclosure No. 1.]
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF ~TAR
Charleston, January 19, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON:
SIR: I am instructed by his excellency the governor to inform you
that he has directed an officer of the State to procure and carry over
with your mails each day to Fort Sumter such supplies of fresh meat
and vegetables as you may indicate.
I am, sir, respectfidiy yours,
ID. F. JAMISON.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
FORT SUMTER S C Ja
Hon. ID. F. JAMISON, .~ nuary 19, 1861.
Executive Office, Department of War:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the r& ceipt of your communi-
cation of this date, stating that you are authorized by his excellency
the governor to inform me that he has directed an officer of the State
to procure and carry over with my mails each day to Fort Sumter such
supplies of fresh meat and vegetables as I may indicate. I confess
that I am at a loss to understand the latter part of this message, as I
have not represented in any quarter that we were in need of such sup-
plies. As commandant of a military post, I can only have my troops
furnished with fresh beef in the manner prescribed by law, and I am
compelled, therefore, with due thanks to his excellency, respectfully to
decline his offer. If his suggestion is based upon a right, then I must
procure the meat as we have been in the habit of doing for years, under
an unexpired contract with Mr. McSweeney, a Charleston butcher, who
would, I presume, if permitted, deliver the meat, & c., at this fort or at
Fort Johnson, at the usual periods for such delivery, four times in te
Page 145
CHAP. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNiON. 145
days. If the permission is founded on courtesy and civility, I am com-
pelled respectfully to decline accepting it, with a reiteration of my
thanks for having made it. in connection with this subject, I deem it
not improper respectfully to suggest that his excellency may do an act
of humanity and great kindness if he will permit one of the New York
steamers to stop with a lighter and take the womeu and children of this
garrison to that city. The confinement within the walls of this work,
and the impossibility of my having it in my power to have them lur-
nished with the proper and usual articles of food, will, I fear, soon pro-
duce sickness a~uong them. The compliance with this request will con-
fer a favor upon a class of persons to whom similar indulgences are
always granted, even during a siege in time of actual war, and will be
duly appreciated by me.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
1tOBEI~T ANDEItSON,
]iliajor, First Artillery, Commanding Fort S inter.
P. 5.I hope that the course I have deemed it my duty to take in
reference to the supplies will have a tendency to allay an excitement
which, jndging from the tenor of the paragraphs in to-days paper, I
fear they are trying to get up in the city.
[Inelosure No. 3.]
HEADQUARTERS QUARTERMASTERS DEPARTMENT,
Charleston, January 19, 1861.
Major ANDERSON:
DEAR Sin: Inclosed please find copy of letter from Secretary of War.
Not waiting your request, I shall send by the mail-boat in the morning
two hundred pounds of beef and a lot of vegetables. I requested
Lieutenant Talbot to ask you to let me know this evening what supplies
von would wish sent daily.
Very respectfully, L. M. HATCH,
Quartermaster- General, South Carolina Militia.
[Thelosure No. 4.]
HEADQUARTERS QUARTERMASTERS DEPARTMENT,
Charleston, January 19, 1861.
Colonel HATCH,
Quartermaster- General:
You are ordered to procure and send down with the mails for Fort
Sumter to-morrow a sufficient quantity of fresh meat and vegetables to
last the garrison of Fort Sumter for forty-eight hours, and inform Major
Anderson that you will purchase and take down every day such pro-
visions from the city market as he may indicate.
D. F. JAMISON.
[Inclosure No. 5.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 20, 1861.
Col. L. M. HATCH,
Quartermaster-General:
DEAR Sin: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note
of the 19th instant, and also to state that as no arrangements have been
made by me with your government in reference to supplies for this post,
10 n
Page 146
146 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. LCHAr.I.
I feel compelled to decline the reception of those supplies. I wrote to
the honorable Secretary of War yesterday in reference to this matter.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Th ANDERSON,
Major, First U. S. Artillery, Gommanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 21, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of the
present condition of the batteries around us occupied or being erected
by the troops of the State of South Carolina:
Fort ]ifoultrie.Until within eight days the work upon this fort,
which was executed by several hundred negroes, was confined to the
erection of three large traverses on the east half of the sea front, and
the enlargement of another that I built upon the same face near the
south angle. These traverses were of a size sufficient to contain a tem-
porary bomb-proof shelter, and really served only to screen from our
enfilading fire only three guns on the face, and also to cover the south
half of the officers quarters. The three columbiads at the south angle
were not covered. But recently the work of preparation to screen
themselves from the fire of Fort Sumter has taken a better turn, and
the work done is really important. It consists of high and solid merlons,
formed of timber, sand bags, and earth, raised between all the guns
that can be brought to bear on this fort, from the west side of their fort,
and in placing traverses or merlons so as to screen from enfilading fire
all the guns upon the sea front which are arranged to fire upon the
channel. The cheeks of the embrasures are of timber, apparently set
on end, like palisades, which I think is objectionable; and I also notice
that the exterior slope of the merlons is too great to resist the pressure
of the earth, and that the sand bags are pressed out in one or two l)laces.
These errors are small, however, compared with the great advantage of
these merlons, which from their height (about five feet) completely
cover the quarters and barracks as high up as the eaves. The following
sketch shows pretty nearly the presQut arrangement of the fronts that
I can see:
ALL THE GUNS
ON THIS ~RON~~
WERE PLACED
IN EMB.BEFORE
WE LEYT THE FORT~
HIGH SAND HILLS
ARE WIThIN IQOYIIS.
OP THIS FRONT.
From Fort Sumter seventeen guns in barbette and eight guns in case-
mate are now ready to fire on Fort Moultrietwenty-five guns in all.
GUNS IN BARBETTE
ON THIS FRONT.
CHANNELALL IN EMB.
OR PROTECTED A? TRAVERSES
Page 147
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
147
Of these, four are 8-inch columbiads, five are 8-inch sea-coast howitzers,
eight are 42-pounders, and eight are 32-pounders. I have overhauled
and fixed each carriage so that it works easily, and made maneuvering
implements, of which there were none here at first. Besides the above,
a 10-inch columbiad is now being bedded by Lieutenant Snyder as a
mortar, to throw shells into Fort Moultrie and upon Sullivans Island.
Battery on the ~{pper or east end of the islund.~-Of this nothing defillite
is known, as it is out of sight, and also, I fear, shielded from our fire
by intervening sand hills. Its object is to secure the east point of the
island, and also have a fire upou the Maffitt Channel.
Battery on SuUirans Island west of Fort Jfoultrie.This is situated
about 300 yards to the west of the fort, and is built across a cross-street
at a. (See sketch.) It is said to contain five guns, but being masked
by 01(1 buildings and fences in front of it, I cannot tell whether or not
it is so. It is intended to fire on Fort Sumter.
Castle Pinclcney remains apparently as it was when taken, with the
exception of sand bags, which are placed around the parapet apparently
for the purpose of protecting the heads of their sharpshooters. It is
reported that some of the guns have been taken from the Castle to arm
the new earth batteries on Morris Island and other places.
Battery at Fort Johnson.This is a small earthen battery for three
guns in embrasure, intended to fire on the channel. It is situated next
to the old barracks, as shown in rough sketch in the margin. I judge
of the calibers of the guns by their reports in firing for practice.
Second battery near Fort Johnron.T his is now
in the process of construction. It appears to be
for mortars, as no embrasures are made. It is
of sufficient size for three guns or mortars. ENfl
Morris I8land Battery.This is the one that
fired on the Star of the West. It is about 2,400
or 2,500 yards from us, and concealed from view
by intervening sand hills. It is a gun battery,
and did contain two guns at first. Now I am
confident that it contains at least four guns.
The troops for the service of the batteries are
quartered in the buildings constituting the
small-pox hospital, over one of which their flag is flying, a red field with
white palmetto tree upon it. The flag on Fort Johnson is similar, as is
also the one on Castle Pinckney. That on Fort Moultrie is a white field
with a green palmetto tree, and a red star in the corner.
Battery on Cummings Point.This is apparently for mortars, and is of
sufficient extent to contain six or eight. A large force of negroes has
been at work upon it during the last week. A large quantity of timber
has been hauled into it, apparently for shell-proof shelters as well as
platforms; most of the timber was too large for platforms. This battery
seems to be for mortars, as no embrasures are yet made. It is within
good range of our heavy guns, of which four 8-inch columbiads, three
42-pounders, one 8-inch sea-coast howitzer, and six 24-pounders on the
barbette tier bear upon it; besides, two 32-pounders in the lower tier
can fire upon it. This will give a powerful fire. Still, they are appar-
ently providing for it. I have no positive knowledge of the proposed
armament of this battery, but I have heard twice from persons who
would be apt to know that three mortars are already in it. These are
probably the two trophy mortars from the arsenal and the 10-inch mortar
from Fort Moultrie.
I have heard heavy firing several times, as though for practice, in th
Page 148
148 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
direction of the Stono River, and I presume a small battery has been
erected there to guard that approach to the city.
Of the garrison of Castle Pinckney I cannot judge very well. Of that
for Fort iiilioultrie and the other batteries on Sullivans Island I should
judge the number to be about 800. On Morris Island about 500. At
Fort Johnson about 100, which will probably be increased with the com-
pletion of the second battery to 200.
The temper of the authorities seems to have changed for the better
since Mr. ilayne and Mr. Gourdin have been in Washingtou. The propo-
sition to supply fresh meat and vegetables was made by Governor Pick-
ens on the 19th, but declined by Major Anderson on the following day. A
supply of fresh meat and vegetables that had been sent down yesterday
by the South Carolina quartermaster-general was returned. In the let-
ter declining the proffered supply Major Anderson requested Governor
Pickens to allow the camp women and children to go to New York in the
next steamer, and to allow a lighter to come down to take them and their
effects to the steamer as she passes. No answer has yet been received
to this request. The temper of the common people is not, however, so
easily changed from the high pitch of excitement to which it has been
wrought to a suddenly conciliatory course, the reasons for which they
do not perceive.
Our hopes for a pacific solution of the present difficulties are very
much increased since Lieutenant Talbots return.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
(I
Page 149
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 149
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, January 22, 1861.
Hon. BENJAMIN FITZPATRICK,
Hon. S. 11. MALLORY, Hon. JoiiN SLIDELL:
GENTLEMEN: The President has received yonr communication of the
19th instant, * with the copy of a correspondence between yonrselves
and others, representing States which have already seceded from the
United States, or will have done so before 1st of February next, and
Col. Isaac W. Hayne, of South Carolina, in behalf of the government of
that State, in relation to Fort Snmter, and you ask the President to
take into consideration the subject of the correspondence. With this
request he has complied, and has directed me to communicate his an-
swer.
In your letter to Colonel Hayne of the 13th instant, * you propose to
him to defer the delivery of a message from the governor of South Caro-
lina to the President. with which he has been intrusted, for a few days,
until the President and Colonel Hayne shall have considered the sug-
gestions which you submit. It is unnecessary to refer specially to these
suggestions, because the letter addressed to you by Colonel Hayne, of
the 17th instant, presents a clear and specific answei~ to them. In this
he says: I am not clothed with power to make the arrangement you
suggest, but provided you can get assurances with which you are en-
tirely satisfied that no re-enforcements will be sent to Fort Sumter in
the interval, and that the public peace will not be disturbed by any act
of hostility toward South Carolina, I will refer your communication to
the authorities of South Carolina, and withholding the communication
with which I am at present charged, will await further instructions.
From the beginning of the present unhappy troubles, the President
has endeavored to perform his executive duties in such a manner as to
preserve the peace of the country and prevent bloodshed. This is still
his fixed purpose. You, therefore, do him no more than justice in stat-
ing that you have assurances (from his public messages, I presume)
that, notwithstanding the circumstances under which Major Ander-
son left Fort Moultrie and entered Fort Sumter with the forces under
his command, it was not taken, and is not held, with any hostile or
unfriendly purpose towards your State, but merely as property of the
United States, which the President deems it his duty to protect and pre-
serve. You have correctly stated what the President deems to be his
duty. His sole object now is, and has been, to act .strictly on the de-
fensive, and to authorize no movement against the people of South Caro-
lina unless clearly justified by a) hostile movement on their part. He
could not have given a better proof of his desire to prevent the effusion
of blood than by forbearing to resort to the use of force under the strong
provocation of an attack (happily without a fatal result) on an unarmed
vessel bearing the flag of the United States.
I am happy to observe that iu your letter to Colonel Hayne you ex-
press the opinion that it is especially due from South Carolina to our
States, to say nothing of other slaveholdiug States, that she should,
as far as she can consistently with her honor, avoid initiating hostilities
between her and the United States, or any other power.~~ To initiate
such hostilities against Fort Sumter would, beyond question, be an act
of war against the United States.
In regard to the proposition of Colonel Hayne, that no re-enforce-
ments will be sent to Fort Sumter in the interval, and that the public
* Not of record in War Department
Page 150
150 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
peace will not be disturbed by any act of hostility towards South Caro-
lina, it is impossible for me to give you any such assurances. The
President has no authority to euter into such an agreement ornuderstand-
ing. As an executive officer he is simply bound to protect the public
property so far as this may be practicable, and it would be a manifest
violation of his duty to place himself under engagements that he would
nor perform this duty either for an indefinite or a limited period. At
the present moment it is not deemed necessary to re-enforce Major An-
derson, because he makes no such request, and feels quite secure in his
position. Should his safety, however, require reenforcements, every
effort will be made to supply them.
in regard to an assurance from the President that the public peace
will not be disturbed by any act of hostility toward South Carolina,
the answer will readily occur to yourselves. To Congress, and to Con-
gress alone, belongs the power to make war, and it would be an act of
usurpation for the Executive to give any assurance that Congress would
not exercise this power, however strongly he may be convinced that no
such intention exists.
I am glad to be assured from the letter of Colonel ilayne that Major
Anderson and his command do now obtain all necessary supplies, in-
cluding fresh meat and vegetables, and, I believe, fuel and water, from
the city of Charleston, and do now enjoy communication by post and
special messenger with the President, and will continue to do so, cer-
tainly until the door to negotiation has been closed. I trust that
these facilities may still be afforded to Major Anderson. This is as it
should be. Major Anderson is not menacing Charleston, and I am con-
vinced that the happiest result which can be attained is that both he
and the authorities of South Carolina shall remain on their present amni-
cable footing, neither party being bound by any obligation whatever,
except the high Christian and moral duty to keep the peace, and to
avoid all causes of mutual irritation.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. HOLT,
& cretary of War.
No. 20.] FonT SUMTER, S. C., January 22, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., January 25.)
Col. S. COOPE General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that with the exception of con-
tinued activity shown yesterday in extending the battery at Cummings
Point (Morris Island), everything seemed to be quiet around us. Lieu-
tenant Hall may bring on a copy of the private Navy Signal Book with
the signals, and also the designation of the key (or number) agreed
upon in concert with the Navy IDepartmnent. This may be of service.
Be pleased to ask Mr. Hall to bring me a supply of best thin ruled note
paper, with envelopes. Being cut off from the city I cannot procure
those indispensable articles.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
P. S.No reply as yet to my letter to the Hon. D. F. Jamison
Page 151
151
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
No. 21.j FoRT SUMTER, S. C., January 23, 1861.
(Received A. 0-. 0., January 27.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General:
COLONEL: I have the lionor to send herewith a copy of the reply of
the Hon. D. F. Jamison to my letter to him about supl)lieS for this gar-
rison and the removal of our women and children, and also a copy of my
acknowledgment of the same. I am highly gratified at the courtesy and
proper tone of this reply.
~f he storm which was raging yesterday has continued with unabated
severity up to the present moment, and has put a stop to all outdoor
work, both with the South Carolinians and ourselves, it is now raining
and blowing so heavily and the bay is so rough that I shall not venture
to send our boat to Fort Johnson for the mail. Shonld the storm abate
so that I can send our letters off in time for the evening mail I shall
send them over. I see by the Coast Survey map that Maffitts and the
Swash Channel are not the same. I was led into that mistake by an
old pilot, who told me that Maffitts Channel was formerly called the
Swash. I will thank you to be pleased, therefore, to erase the words
Swash ~ in my letter to the honorable Secretary of War dated the
21st instant, and also to change the word ~ into ~
where in the same letter I am describing the work which has been re-
cently executed at Fort Moultrie.*
I am, colonel, very respectfully, & c.,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure No. 1.1
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF WAR,
Charleston, January 21, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON:
SIR. In offering to permit you to purchase in this city, through the
instrumentality of an officer of the State, such fresh supl)lies of provis-
ions as you might need, his excellency the governor was inflaenced solely
by commsidera~ions of courtesy; and if he had no other motive for refus-
ing to any of your garrison free access to the city to procure such sup-
plies, he would have been moved by prudential reasons for the safety of
your people, in preventing a collision between them and our own citi-
zens. As to the manner of procuring your supplies, his excellency is
indifferent whether it is done by the officer referred to, or whether your
market supplies are delivered to you at Fort Johnson by the butcher
whom you say you have before employed. It is only insisted on that
the supplies, if sent, shall be carried over in a boat under an officer of
the State who takes to Fort Johnson your daily mails. His excellency
desires me to say that he willingly accedes to your request as to the
women and children in Fort Sumter, and that he will afford every
facility in his power to enable you to remove them from the fort at any
time and in any manner that will be most agreeable to them.
I am, sir, respectfully, yours, B. F. JAMISON.
These corrections made in the text
Page 152
152 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
[Inelosure No. 2.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 22, 1861.
Hon. D. F. JAMISON,
Executive Office, Department of War, Charleston:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the
21st instant, and to express my gratification at its tenor. I shall direct
my staff officer to write to the contractor in reference to his supplying
us with beef, and will communicate with you as soon as the necessary
preliminaries are arranged, in order that you may then, if you please,
give the requisite instructions for carrying them into effect. Be pleased
to express to his excellency the governor my thanks for the kind and
prompt manner in which he gave his consent to the proposed transfer
of the women and children of this garrison. As there are on Sullivans
Island the families of two of our non-commissioned officers, with their
furniture, & c., and also a quantity of private property (including some
musical instrumentsnot public property) belonging to this command,
which the first commander of Fort Moultrie, Colonel De Saussure, sent
me word he had collected and placed under lock and key, it will be
necessary to permit the two non-commissioned officers to go tY Phie island
to assist in moving their families, & c. The lighter, it occurs to me,
which will be needed to take the families to the steamer, had bettergo
to the island for the property there before coming for the women and
children here. As we are all very desirous of guarding against causing
any unnecessary excitement, it will afford me great pleasure to have
everything done in the most quiet way possible. I shall, consequently,
cheerfully govern myself, as far as possible, by the views and wishes of
his excellency in reference to this matter, and will be pleased to hear
from you what they are. It is my wish, if the weather prove favorable,
to ship the families in the Saturday steamer, or the first one after that
day.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, ~Jommanding.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
January 24, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Commanding Fort Sumter, Charleston, S. C.:
MAJOR: Your letter (No. 19) of the 21st instant, with inclosures, has
been received. The Secretary will reply to it in a few days. Meantime
the Secretary desires you to inforni him what is the nature of the postal
arrangements with your post, and whether they are satisfactory to you.
Can you send messengers to Charleston for your mails, and is there
danger of your men deserting if they are thus empl6yed ~
It is observed that you seal your letters with waxa good precaution,
without which there is no certainty that they have not been opened by
unauthorized hands.
Please state whether the men sent up to attend a murder trial in
Charleston made an attempt to desert, as reported in the papers.
I am, & c.,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant-Ge~wral.
[CHAP. I
Page 153
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 153
No. 22.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 24, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: The storm continued until about daylight this morning.
It is still cloudy, but the wind has abated sufficiently to enable our boat
to take our mail over to Fort Johnson. I have written to our beef con-
tractor in reference to furnishing us with beef; and also such vegetables
as the doctor may deem suitable. The purchase of the latter will, I
hope, under existing circumstances, be allowed. A letter has also been
writteu to the agent of the New York line of steamboats about trans-
porting our women and children to New York, where, I hope, the quar-
termaster will see that they are made comfortable. They will probably
leave early next week.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 23.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 25, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: There is nothing worthy of mention, as far as I know, this
morning, except the fact of the New York steamer Columbia having
grounded in attempting to go out. She is iu the Maffitts Channel, nearly
in front of the Moultrie House; and as she went on when the tide was
well up, there is a chance of her remaining where she is for some time.
If the authorities here are in earnest about being willing to grant inc
marketing facilities, it seems to me they will not object to the Govern-
ment sending us provisions, groceries, and coal from New York. We
can get along pretty well with what we have, but some additions to our
supplies would add greatly to our comfort. By burning the old build-
ings, and, if very hard pushed, the spare gun carriages, & c., we can keep
up our necessary fires for three months.
I am, colonel, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 24.] FonT S1JMTEI~, S. C., January 27, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., January 30.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to state, in reply to your letter of the
24th instant, that our letters, & c., are sent by boat, daily, at 12 in., to
Fort Johnson in a sealed package, addressed to the postmaster in C arles-
ton, and that the return boat brings our mail in a package bearing
the post-office seal. I am satisfied with the existing arrangement. The
governor told Lieutenant Talbot, when he saw him on his return from
Washington, that I might, if I chose, send up to the city for my mails,
but that he thought it would not be judicious for me to do so. I do not
apprehend that there would be the slightest danger of any of my men
deserting if thus employed, but think they might be insulted or mal-
treated. The report to which you refer, about the attempt of the men
who were sent to the city to attend a murder trial ,to desert, is absolutely
and entirely false. Lieutenant Davis (who refused to take them, though
offered arms by several persons and urged to accept them) says that th
Page 154
154 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
men conducted themselves with the greatest propriety, and that, although
handsomely entertained, they returned perfectly sober. I have not
deemed it advisable to notice in any way the false reports which have
originated in Charleston and elsewhere about us. I send herewith a
slip containing two such reports. Lieutenant Meade states, and I have
no doubt with entire truthfulness, that he made no statement whilst ab-
sent to any person about my preferences or my opinions, either military
or political, and that the inferences given in the article in the Peters-
burg paper were not deducible from any facts stated by him. The other
article, in the Baltimore paper, stating that a boat containing three of
my men was fired into from Sullivans Island, is also entirely untrue.
I cannot see the object to be attained by the circulation of such un-
truths. The object of one, which has been repeated more than once,
that we are getting fresh provisions from the Charleston market, is ap-
parent enough, viz, to show they are treating us courteously. But even
that is not a fact. I send herewith a copy of a letter written to our
former beef contractor about furnishing us with meat, & c., to which no
reply has yet been receivedwhy, I am unable to ascertain; so that, up
to this moment, we have not derived the least advantage from the
Charleston markets; and I can confidently say that none of my com-
mand desire to receive anything from the city for which we are not to
pay. Under the daily expectation of the return of Lieutenant Ball, I
have deferred sending in a memorandum of the commissary stores on
hand. There are now here 38 barrels pork, 37 barrels flour, 13 barrels
hard bread, 2 barrels beans, 1 barrel coffee, ~ barrel sugar, 3 barrels
vinegar, 10 pounds candles, 40 pounds soap, and ~ barrel salt. You will
see from this that for my present command (especially after the depart-
ure of our women and children) we shall have an ample supply of pork
and bread. It is a pity that my instructions had not been complied
with, which would have given us the small stores which are now defi-
cient, and which we shall not object to receiving as soon as the safety
of our country will admit of our getting them. Nothing of importance
to report. The Columbia is still aground in the Maffitts Channel.
I am, colonel, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
lVThjor, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure No. 1.]
FORT SUMTER, January 24, 1861.
Mr. DANIEL MCSwEENEY:
SIR: I am directed by Major Anderson, commanding this post, to
ascertain whether you will furnish such fresh beef and vegetables as
may be required here; the beef upon the terms of the contract under
which you supplied Fort Moultrie; the vegetables to be purchased by
you for us at fair market prices; the whole to be delivered as hitherto,
four times in ten days, at some wharf in Charleston, for transportation
to Fort Johnson, where it will be received by this garrison. This ar-
rangement, which has been approved by the governor of South Caro-
lina, it is desired shall go into effect immediately, and if you consent to
it, you can send 184 pounds of fresh beef at a time, at such hour and
wherever Quartermaster-General Hatch (120 Meeting street) may advise
you. Of the vegetables you will be further directed. Please ackuowl
edge the receipt of this as soon as possible,in order,if necessary, that
other arrangements may be made.
Respectfully, your obedient servant, T. SEYMOUR,
Gaptain, U. S. Army
Page 155
CIL& r. Li
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
155
[Inclosure No. 2.]
Copy of extracts from Baltimore Sun and Petersburg Daily Express.
[By telegraph for tlie Baltimore Sun.]
THE LATEST FROM THE SOUTH.
FROM SOUTH CAROLINAA BOAT FROM FORT SUMTER FIRED AT BY THE SOUTH CAI?O-
LINIANSHON. JEFF. DAVIS SPOKEN OF FOR PRESIDENT OF THE SOUTHERN CONFED-
ERACY.
CHARLESTON JANUARY 23.The battery on the beach at Sullivans Island fired into
a boat from Fort Sumter on Monday. There were three men in it, who approached the
beach with mnffled oars. The sentry at the battery hailed them and warned them off.
Failing to obey the summons, the sentry fired musketry into the boat, when it turned
round and went away. Soon after these at the battery heard a noise like the hauling
np of a boat at Fort Sumter. One of the men in the boat is said to have been wounded
badly. Their object is supposed to have been desertion, but some say it was a desper-
ate effort to runrthe gauntlet of the sentries and spike the guns of the battery.
[The Daily Express, Petersburg. Vn., Tuesday morning, January 22, 1561.]
COMING TO THE POINTA PRACTICAL MOVEMENT.
THE POSITION OF MAJOR ANDRRsoN.Lieut. R. K. Meade, of the Engineer Corps,
at Fort Sumter, has been in our city, on a visit home, for several days past. Several
gentlemen with whom he has conversed inform us that he speaks in the highest terms
of Major Anderson, not only as a brave and fearless soldier, but as a strong and true
Southern man, his position in the present state of affairs, however, rendering it im-
possible for him to take any other position before the people of the South and of the
Union. He does not feel in the slightest complimented by the fanatical cannon firing
in his honor at the North, and it is with pain, not fear nor even embarrassment, that
he realizes the present attitude of the South towards him. That he loves the South,
that lie prefers it. every social tie gives ample testimony. He is bound by the holy
ties of wedlock to one of the fairest of the fair of Georgia, a daughter of General Clinch.
He has four devoted brothers, every one of whom, it is said, is a strong secessionist.
Add to this that he is a Southerner by birth, and a descendant of Revolutionary sires,
we need hardly more to give us assurance that he not only loves his native South, but
will at the proper time, and in an honorable manner, draw the sword in her defense.
These are simple inferences from facts as known. Not a syllable has fallen from the
lips of Lieutenant Meade to lead to the remotest deduction that Major Anderson will
not perform his whole duty to the Government of the United States. But that he will
be hand in band with the South as soon as he may be, with honor, relieved from his
position, we have little to doubt.
MAJOR ANDERSON.A Comrade writes to the Columbus (Ga.) Enquirer concern-
ing the late removal of Major Anderson to Fort Sumter, and in defense of his action
and character. The conclusion is: Major Anderson is a Southern manborn and
raised in the noble old Dark and Bloody Ground. He will be found on the side of
the South when this government is dismembered, and, when his critical position has
been properly understood, his name will be fully exonerated from the grave charges
which have been made against it by those who have been deplorably misinformed
upon all the points of military honor which have governed this truly gallant and meri-
torious ~
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 27, 1861..
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that since the date of my last
letter very little has been done by the troops of South Carolina around
us, in consequence of the continued storm of rain and wind that has
prevailed. The little that has been done comprises the completion of
the mortar battery, situated to the southeast of Fort Johnson, on James
Island, and the enlargement of the battery on Cummings Point b
Page 156
156 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
extending it towards the east. It now occupies the position shown in
red in the marginal sketch.* The position of the other battery on
Morris Island is also shown in red. This is called by the Charlestonians
Fort Morris,~ and I will so designate it in future.
The two or three guard-boats that the authorities have in use are
constantly employed in watching the bar, and evidently have signals
by which they can communicate intelligence at night as well as in the
day. On the morning of the 25th the steamer Columbia, Captain
Berry (who was the first to hoist the palmetto flag on board his vessel).
in leaving the harbor by the Maffitt Channel, ran on shore between the
Moultrie House and Bowmans Jetty, on Sullivans Island. Despite all
efforts to get her off at each high tide (and we have had several very
high ones since), she still lies in the same position. The probability is
that she will ~o to pieces if it should happen to blow hard from the
south or eastward. The cause of this casualty is undoubtedly found
in the fact that the taking up of the outer end of Bowmans Jetty has
caused a deposition below it, which has diminished the depth of water,
so that a vessel has now to follow a winding course very much like the
red [broken] line in the marginal sketch. The difficulty of navigating
the sharp turn opposite where the Columbia now lies is very much
increased by the opposite effects of flood and ebb tide th
to set the vessel on shore. , e latter tending
Going out in the haze of the morning, the Columbia probably failed
to observe the turn of tide, and could not turn quickly enough, with a
full he d of steam, to clear the beach. Another of the steamers of the
same line came in through the main ship channel last evening, being
piloted in by one of the guard-boats.
In Fort Sumter everything goes on quite smoothly. I have done little
during the past week, on account of the storm, besides policing, renmov-
ing m terials, and strengtheni ig the filling of the openings for time em-
brasures of the second tier. One 10-inch columbiad has also been put
in position on the parade to throw shells into Fort Moultrie, and sur-
rounded by a strong traverse to avoid all danger from a possible burst-
ing of the piece. Although all of the cement and bricks are used up,
and the extreme scarcity of fuel does not permit the burning of shells
for lime, Ican manage with dry stone to strengthen all parts that require
Here omitted. See sketch in Foster to Totten, February 5, pest.
C
-1
-
Page 157
CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
157
it. I do not propose to discharge my force of forty-three men at present,
but to employ them at such work as from time to time becomes necessary.
All of them will be of great service iu case we have to sustain a cannon-
ade, and the majority of them will also be of material aid in resisting a
sudden attack. There is not a particle of truth in the many reports that
have crept into the papers about mutinies, & c. The soldiers are in ex-
cellent spirits and full of confidence. Those of my men that I have dis-
charged of late have left with .great reluctance. In fine, the morale at
present is very high.
The trouble th t I had with my men soon after the command came
over, which resulted in a rapid thinning out of the force, has long since
ceased. Every man, however, that is discharged is beset as soon as he
reaches town for information, and in some instances they have played
upon the credulity of their questioners. in other instances, the informa~
tion given has been magnified and . distorted. And in one case, that of
Lieutenant Davis, who went to town on the 19th in charge of four
soldiers summoned as witnesses in a murder trial, an effort was made
to convince him that his men, having been tampered with, had. uttered
threats against him, and that he should arm himself before trusting
himself to come down with them alone in a boat. Lieutenant Davis
declined their proffer of arms. It appears that there was no circum-
stance to warrant this attempt to place Lieutenant Davis in a false
position towards his men, and to give cause for reports prejudicial to
the fidelity of the soldiers. The report in the papers that the men
attempted to jump out of the window to escape, is utterly without foun-
dation. So, also, is the report that a boat from Fort Sumter. in attempt-
ing to reconnoiter the battery on Morris Island, had been fired into by
the sentry, and one man wounded. No boat has ever left Fort Sumter
for such a purpose, and I question whether it was a boat that the sentry
fired at. In fact, it is not safe to credit any reports coming from this
region, except such as are favorable to the Government of the United
States. Even the statements that emanated from high authority and
were widely circulated, to the effect that this command was supplied
with fresh provisions, & c., are not strictly true, for we have not as yet
received any.
One lot was sent down on the 20th by the State authorities, which
Major Anderson declined to receive. His proposition to get them from
the regular contractor, and to pay for them, was accepted; but up to
this time (10 a. in. of the 27th) we have not received anything from the
contractor in town.
Lientenant Meade returned on Wednesday, the 23d, bnt on account
of the storm was not able to get to the fort before the following day.
Both he and Lieutenant Snyder having volunteered for the duty, I have
entered them upon the regular roster for guard duty, two of the officers
of the command being sick, and one absent. It does not interfere with
our regular duties.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, January 28, 1861.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: I have the pleasure to inform you that $5,000 was remitted on
Saturday last, the 26th instant, to the assistant treasurer at New York
Page 158
158 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
to be held subject to your check, and that $10,000 in addition will be
remitted to him, for the same purpose, to-day, in fulfillment of two other
requisitions heretofore issned in your favor for $5,000 each, as already
advised.
You will please return to Lieutenant Gillmore, out of these funds, the
$1,500 placed by him to your credit with the assistant treasurer at
New York, on the 10th instant, and he will be instructed to forward to
you a proper receipt for the same. -
This communication, and all subsequent letters, will be inclosed in an
envelope, sealed with red wax, impressed with the Department seal,
and it is desirable that all your future communications may be also
sealed with wax, instead of the ordinary way.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. G. TOTTEX,
Brevet Brigadier- General, and Colonel of Engineers.
FORT SUMTER S C., January 29, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, (Received A. G. 0., February 1.)
Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: The South Carolinians are at work in large force on Cum-
mings Point, apparently framing heavy timbers, for what purpose I
am unable yet to state. They succeeded this morning, favored by a
very high tide, in getting the Columbia off. I send herewith two slips
cut from yesterday~s Mercury, which show unmistakably the animus of
these people. They are determined to bring on a collision with the
General Government. Everything around us shows this to be their de-
termination and their aim. I had a contract made yesterday for the
transportation of the women attached to this command. The number
is much greater than the legal allowance, but under the I)resent excited
state of feeling toward our command it would not do to send to the city
or to Sullivans Island any of the relatives of our soldiers wives who
have been living with them. The number who will be sent (twenty)
embraces those attached to the companies and the wives of the members
of the band, and also the wives of the non-commissioned staff. Inclosed
you will also receive the muster and pay rolls of this command, which
have been signed by the husbands of the women. I will thank you
to have them sent by the Pay Department to the paymaster in New
York, with instructions to hand the pay to the women. I will thank
you also to have the necessary instructions sent to New York for the
rations, & c., for these women and children.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
lliliajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure ~To. 1.]
OmTuAnx.Died, on Saturday night, at the Marine Hospital, Thaddeus S. Straw-
inski, aged 18 years and 7 days, from an accidental wound from a revolver. This
promising young man was on duty in the Columbia Artillery at Fort Moultrie when the
sad accident occurred. He was a noble fellow, and, just a week after entering the
freshman class of the South Carolina College, with his spirited father joined the ranks
at the call of the State. While on the litter being carried to the hospital he said to
those who were conveying him: Friends, 0, how sorry I am you are to attack Fort
Sumter without me! During his sufferings he mourned that he could not be at th
Page 159
CHAP. I.]
159
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION.
taking of the fort. He was calm and resigned, and met his end prayerfully, with the
Lords Prayer on his lips. A mothers gentle influence soothed his dying hour, and a
soldiers spirit nerved a fathers heart to resign his son to his Creator. The sympathy
of the whole community is with them in their bereavement.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
Mr. Yeadon, from th~ committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two
houses on that clause of the appropriation bill which appropriates $30,000 for dredg-
ing Maffitts Channel, submitted a report recommending the adoption of the follow-
ing: For deepening or otherwise improving Maffitts Channel, $30,000, to be drawn
by and expended under the direction of a commission, as follows: Messrs. George A.
Trenhoim, Henry Gourdin, George N. Reynolds, W. G. De Saussure, F. I. Porcher,
Hugh E. Vincent, and the mayor of Charleston ex officio: Provided, The work shall not
be resumed until Fort Sumter passes into the possession of the authorities of the
State, and all the troops of the United States shall be removed froni the harbor of
Charleston.
The report was agreed to.
Mr. Buist offered the following resolution:
Resolved, That it is the opinion of the general assembly that no sessions of the
courts of law or equity in this State should be holden so long as the Government at
Washington has control of the fortress known as Fort Sumter.
Ten members objecting, the resolution was ordered for consideration on Monday.
No. 27.] FORT SUMTER, 5. C., January 30, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 4.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General:
COLONEL: They are still busily engaged at work on Cummings Point.
I am not yet certain what they are going to pnt there. There was very
great activity and stir in the harbor last night. The lookout ship out-
side the bar displayed a light about half past 11, which was answered
by rockets by the guard-boats, of which we noticed four on duty, and
soon after two guns were fired from the battery on Morris Island, and
at half past 1 oclock this morning two guns were fired from Fort Moul-
trie. We could not see any vessels in the offing, but they might have
been visible to those on the guard-boats (steamers). I do hope that no
attempt will be made by our friends to throw supplies in; their doing
so would do more harm than good. The steamboat company did not
send down for our women and children yesterday as they promised;
why, I do not know.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 28.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 31, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 4.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: The South Carolinians are still busily engaged at work at
two places on Cummings Point. They ar~ using heavy timbers, which
they square and frame. Last night they worked at least half the night.
The agent of the INew York steamers informed ns yesterday that he
could not get a lighter to come down for the women and children, but
that he will send one for them to-morrow, so as to take them in the
Saturday steamer. No reply, as yet, from the Charleston butcher, our
beef contractor. I presume that he dare not send us any provisions
Page 160
160 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. rdHAP. I.
for fear that he will be regarded as a traitor to South Carolina for
furnishing comfort and aid to her enemies.
God save our country.
I am, colonel, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Lfajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 29.] FORT SUMTER S C., January 31, 1861.
(Re~eived A. G. 0., February 4.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I hasten to write this letter, to be taken to the city by my
friend, the Hon. Robert N. Gourdin, to say that the butcher has seut
down a supply of fresh beef, with a note from him stating that he had
not received my note, and that he did not, therefore, know of my order
to him to continue my supplies as when I was in Fort Moultrie. He
states that he sends the beef to-day in compliance with instructions
from Mr. Gourdin, who has ieceived a letter from me, in which I had
alluded to my having written to him about it. He concluded by saying
that he will cheerfully send what I require. Mr. Gourdin says that his
excellency the governor is very desirous that we shall receive our sup.
plies regularly, and thinks that there can be no difficulty in reference
to groceries also. Hoping in God that there can be no further difficulty
of any sort in this harbor,
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 31, 1861.
General JoS. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
of the 28th instant, informing me that $15,000 was placed to my credit
with the assistant treasurer of the United States at New York. This
relieves me from my present embarrassment. I shall, however, require
$5,000 more for Fort Sumter by the end of the month of February.
The operations of the South Carolinians around us continue to be
carried on with activity by means of a large force of negroes. The
battery on Cummings Point, mentioned in my last letters, is being en-
larged into a field work, the parapet of which is not sufficiently formed
to distinguish the trace with accuracy. To the west of this field work
they have commenced what appears to be a redoubt. This is quite near
the westecn point of Cummings Point.
Steamers are quite active, especially at night, in delivering materials
at this point. A very large quantity of timber has been delivered, in
rafts, and used for revetments, platforms, and, apparently, bomb-proof
shelters.
On Sullivans Island I have learned that the battery in the cross street
opposite Dr. Ravenels house, also opposite where the chaplain, Rev.
Mr. Harris (now at Fort Washington), lived, is for mortars, apparently,
as no embrasures are formed, but that neither guns or mortars are, as
yet, placed in it. The batteries on the island above Fort Moultrie ar
Page 161
CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 161
two in number. The first is only a short distance above the Moultrie
House, and about 1,460 yards above Fort Moultrie. It is armed with
three guns, either 24-pounders or 32 pounders. It is not in sight of
this fort, being in range of and beyond the Moultrie House. its posi-
tion is opposite that portion of the Maffitt Channel which comes closest
to the island.
The second battery is at the upper or east end of the island, and is
armed with two guns, 24 or 32 pounders.
The last information from the island gave the number of men there as
1,450. But of these a very large number are raw recruits for the regu-
lar regiment that they are forming.
In this fort we are hard at work perfecting the arrangements for
defense and offense, and creating new ones. Three 10-inch columbiads
and four 8-inch columbiads (for which there are no carriages) are ar-
ranged as mortars.
The women and children are to leave for New York to-morrow by
steamer.
The authorities have promised to send over my private effects from
Sullivans Island, but have declined to allow me, or any one sent by me,
to go over to collect them and pack them. I am, however, pleased to
secure what I can in the way that is indicated by the authorities. I will
write again in detail as soon as I can determine the trace of the works
on Cummings Point.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. C-. FOSTER,
Gaptain, Engineers.
ADJUTANT-G-ENERAL5 OFFICE,
Washington, D. C., February 1, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
Commanding Fort Sumter, S. C.:
MAJOR: The President deeming it nnnecessary longer to detain Lieu-
tenant Hall, he will start this afternoon for his post. By him I send
this letter to inform you of the receipt of your several letters, up to No.
26, inclnsive.
The matters pertaining to Colonel Haynes mission not being yet
fully determined, I am unable to say more from the Secretary of. War
than that your course in relation to the tender of provisions from the
governor of South Carolina, and in all other matters which have come
to the knowledge of the Department, is approved to the fullest extent.
Jam, & c.,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General.
No.30.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 1, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General:
COLONEL: Nothing unusual has occurred, as far as I know, around
us. They are still engaged working on Cummings Point. The lighter
is now here, loading with women, children, and baggage. They are t~
leave the city in the steamer for New York to-morrow.
I am, colonel, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Liommanding.
11 R
Page 162
162 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
Maj. T. II. lloL1~iE~, Washington, D. C., February 1, 1861.
Eighth Infantry, Commanding Fort Columbus,
Governors Island, N. Y.:
SIR: About twenty women and children from Major Andersons com-
mand at Fort Sumter are on their way to New York, and application
will probably be made to receive them at Fort Columbus. Should this
be the case you will please make them as comfortable as circumstances
will permit, and give rations to such as are properly laundresses of
companies. If better quarters can be thus secured to them they can be
sent to Fort Wood.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General.
No. 31.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 2, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 6.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I received a letter yesterday from Mr. Gonrdin,in which
he says: I saw his excellency this evening, and he makes no objection
to your groceries being sent you. The South Carolinians were, we
thought, occupied nearly all last night on the works at Cummings
Point. One of them is now probably twelve or fifteen feet high, and
appears to be bomb-proof, and may be intended to defilade a battery
pointing on the channel from our fire. From the energy with which
their operations are carried on it is evident that they regard them as
very necessary, and that they consider that they are also important,
and that they shall be pushed as rapidly as possible. The women and
children are on board the steamer, but the wind is blowing so heavily
that it is doubtful whether they will attempt to cross the bar with this
tide.
I am, colonel, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
lllajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 32.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 3, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: Yesterday and last night, in consequence of the continu-
ance of a storm of wind and rain, very little work was done, as far as
we could observe, around us. The rain is still (11 a. in.) continuing.
The steamer has not yet left the harbor with the women and children.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Jfajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 33.J FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 4, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 6.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: The South Carolinians continued to do as much work
yesterday (Sunday) at Cummings Point as the storm permitted. Th
Page 163
CHAr. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 163
work nearest to us now presents the appearance of a battery, having an
inclined guard in front to glance our balls off. They are using large
quantities of railroad bars in their constructions on that point. The
New York steamer sailed yesterday with our women and children.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 34.] FoRT SUMTER, S. C., February 5, 186.1.
(Received A. G. 0., February 8.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: The character of the work on the end of Cummings
Point nearest to us is, I think, now pretty well established. It seems
to be a bomb-proof, with embrasures for the guns, the embrasures cut
in a sloped wall, formed of heavy timbers, which is now being covered
with railroad bars. This battery, though too far off for doing much
damage to our walls, unless they have or get heavy rifled guns, will be
pretty safe from the effect of our horizontal fires. They appear to be
at work to-day connecting this battery with one between it and the
battery which fired on the Star of the West, by means of a covered
way. Their engineering appears to be well devised and well executed,
and their works, even in their present condition, will make it impos-
sible for any hostile force, other than a large and well-appointed one,
to enter this harbor, and the chances are that it will then be at a great
sacrifice of life. Our 10-inch columbiads are now in position. One
points towards the city, one towards Fort Moultrie, and the third can
be directed either towards Fort Moultrie or Morris Island. They are
at an ai~gle of from 300 to 350 I tried a shell, a few evenings ago,
and we calculated~ that from a charge of two pounds we got a range of
about two thousand yards. I have also four 8-inch sea-coast howitzers
planted in the area at an angle of 390 These bear upon Morris Island.
I am now removing the pieces of flagging from the area of our work,
as I want it clear, hoping that should any shells fall in it they will
probably sink so deep that they will not do much, if any, damage.
Captain Foster is engaged in experimenting with one of the iron shut-
ters, trying to see whether we can use them in the lower ciubrasures.
It is very desirable that these embrasures shall be made as secure as
possible.
I am, colonel, respectfully, yourobedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
P. S.Of course, in speaking of forcing an entrance, I do not refer
to the little stratagem of a small party slipping in
Page 164
164 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. rcFIAr. I.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 5, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The sketch upon the margin below gives a pretty cor-
5
p.
0 CUMMiNGS PT.
~0~
4
___ cIjjj~ -~
Vfk2LapL
-~
~p 4U~
______ ~\k2a1LL
) PORT MORRIS
root idea of the position of the works on Cummings Point, thrown up
by the South Carolinians. Of course it is subject to errors, arising
from the distance at which I am obliged to obtain the information by
means of the spy-glass alone.
The lines of the work are not yet complete, the main efforts having
been directed to getting ready those guns that are intended to fire upon
this work. All the guns that I have indicated by a t are (or appear to
be) in position and covered by bomb-proof roofs.
Those at a a are covered by heavy timbers, laid horizontally upon
firm timber supports, similar to the marginal sketch. The revetmeut
of the cheeks of the embrasures appear to be formed of palmetto logs,
as also the revetment of the interior slope near the guns. The hori-
zontal timbers are large 14-inch raft sticks, covered apparently by a
lighter timber, or planking, running at right angles to the timbers.
The guns at a a were being put upon their carriages (which I suspect,
from their using a gin in the operation, are some of the barbette car-
~I1d1L
Page 165
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 165
riages from Castle Pinckney or Fort Moultrie) at the time I wrote to
you this morning. Subsequently the rough opening of the embrasures
was made and the revetment of the cheeks commenced.
H.W.
The second bombproof battery is built differently. The timbers on
top are sloped at an angle of 450, about as iu the sketch. They rest
npon two horizontal supports parallel to the direction of the battery,
one higher than the other, and these are supported by stout posts,
about 5 feet from each other. Upon the timbers are placed at right
angles a stout planking, and upon this again another covering running
up and down. This last consists of railroad iron, apparently the T
rail. The work has only progressed thus far, although there is no doubt
that the whole is to be covered with sand. The guns are mounted and
the openings for embrasures formed.
The work is carried on quite rapidly, considering the heavy nature
of the work. The idea of covering the bomb-proof with iron and giving
it an inclination is no doubt derived from the Sardinian method for
forming the sides of a man-of-war, so as to deflect the shot.
A large force of negroes is employed in extending the embankment
of the parapet so as to connect this battery with the field work.
The guard-boats are very active at night, and some are always on
the watch by day.
Inside this fort the work of preparation goes steadily on. My force
is now employed in clearing the parade of the stone flagging. I am
also having all the material on hand made into sand bags.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Gaptain, Engineers.
BOMB PROOF N01 EAT A A]
BOMB PROOF BATTERY No.2
Page 166
166 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Hon. I. W. llAx~NE, Washington, iFebruary 6, 1861.
Attorney- General of the State of South Carolina:
SIR: The President of the United States has received your letter of
the 31st ultimo,* and has charged me with the duty of replying thereto.
In the communication addressed to the President by Governor Pickens,
under date of the 12th of January,* and which accompanies yours, now
before me, his excellency.says:
I have determined to send to you Hon. I. W. Hayne, the attorney-general of the
State of South Carolina, and have instructed him to demand the surrender of Fort
Suniter, in the harbor of Charleston, to the constituted authorities of the State of
South Carolina. The demand I have made of Major Anderson, and which I now make
of you, is suggested because of my earnest desire to avoid bloodshed, which a persist-
ence in your attempt to retain the possession of that fort will cause, and which will
be nnavailing to secure to you that possession, but induce a calamity most deeply to
be deplored.
The character of the demand thus authorized to be made appears
under the influence, I presume, of the correspondence with the Senators
to which you referto have been modified by subsequent instructions
of his excellency, dated the 26th, and received by yourself on the 30th
of January, in which he says:
If it be so that Fort Snmter is held as property, then as property, the rights, what-
ever they may be, of the United States can be ascertained; and for the satisfaction of
these rights the pledge of the State of South Carolina you are authorized to give.
The full scope and precise purport of your instructions, as thus modi-
fied, you have expressed in the following words:
I do not come as a military man to demand the surrender of a fortress, but as the
legal officer of the Stateits attorney-generalto claim for the State the exercise of
its undoubted right of eminent domain, and to pledge the State to make good all
injury to the rights of property which arise from the exercise of the claim.
And lest this explicit language should not sufficiently define your
position, you add:
The proposition now is that her (South Carolinas) law officer should, nnder author-
ity of the governor and his council, distinctly pledge the faith of South Carolina to
make such compensation in regard to Fort Sumter and its appurtenances and contents,
to the full extent of the money value of the property of the United States delivered
over to the authorities of South Carolina by your command.
You then adopt his excellencys train of thought upon the sub,ject so
far as to suggest that the possession of Fort Sumter by the United
States if continued long enough, must lead to collision, and that an.
attack upon it would scarcely improve it as property, whatever the
result, and if captured it would no longer be the subject of account.
The proposal, then, now presented to the President is simply an offer
on the part of South Carolina to buy Fort Sumter and contents as
property of the United States, sustained by a declaration in effect that
if she is not permitted to make the purchase she will seize the fort by
force of arms. As the initiation of a negotiation for the transfer of
property between friendly governments this proposal impresses the
President as having assumed a most unusual form. He has, however,
investigated the claim on which it professes to be based, apart from the
declaration that accompanies it; and it may be here remarked that
much stress has been laid upon the employment of the words prop-
erty~ and public property by the President in his several messages.
These are the most comprehensive terms which can be used in such a
Not of record in War Department
Page 167
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 167
connection, and surely, when referring to a fort or any other public
establishment, they embraced the entire and undivided interest of the
Government therein.
The title of the United States to Fort Snmter is complete and incon-
testible. Were its interest in this property purely proprietary, in the
ordinary acceptation of the term, it might, probably, be subjected to
the exercise of the right of eminent domain; but it has also political
relations to it of a much higher and more imposing character than
those of mere roprietorship. It has absolute jurisdiction over the fort
and the soil on which it stands. This jurisdiction consists~ in the
anthority to exercise exclusive legislation over the property referred
to, and is therefore clearly incompatible with the claim of eminent
domain now insisted upon by South Carolina. This authority was not
derived from any questionable revolutionary source, but from the peace-
fmml cession of South Carolina herself, acting through her legislature,
under a provision of the Constitution of the United States. South Car-
olina can no more assert the right of eminent domain over Fort Sumter
than Maryland can assert it over the District of Columbia. The politi.
cal and proprietary rights of the United States in eibher case rest upon
precisely the same grounds.
The President is, however, relieved from the necessity of further pur.
suing this inquiry by the fact that, whatever may be the claim of South
Carolina to this fort, he has no constitutional power to cede or surren-
der it. The property of the United States has been acquired by force of
l)nblic law, and can only be disposed of under the same solemn sanctions.
The President, as the head of the executive branch of the Government
only, can no more sell and transfer Fort Sumter to South Carolina than
lie can sell and convey the Capitol of the United States to Maryland, or
to any other State or individual seeking to possess it. His excellency
the governor is too familar with the Constitution of the United States,
an(l with the limitations upon the powers of the Chief Magistrate of the
Government it has established, not to appreciate at once the soundness
of this legal proposition.
The question of re-enforcing Fort Sumter is so fully disposed of in my
letter to Senator Slidell and others, under date of the 22d of January
a copy of which accompanies thisthat its discussion will not now be
renewed. I then said: At the present moment it is not deemed neces-
sary to re-enforce Major Anderson, because he makes no such request6
Should his safety, however, require re-enforcements, every effort will be
made to supply them. I can add nothing to the explicitness of this
language, which still applies to the existing status. The right to send
forward re-enforcements when, in the judgment of the President, the
safety of the garrison requires them rests on the same unquestionable
foundation as the right to occupy the fortress itself.
In the letter of Senator Davis and others to yourself, under date of
the 15th ultimo, they say: We, therefore, think it especially due from
South Carolina to our States, to say nothing of other slaveholding
States, that she should, as far as she can consistently with her honor,
avoid initiating hostilities between her and the United States or any
other power; and you now yourself give to the President the gratify-
ing assurance that South Carolina has every disposition to preserve
the public peace; and, since he is himself sincerely animated by the
same desire, it would seem that this common and patriotic object must
be of certain attainment.
It is difficult, however, to reconcile with this assurance the declara-
tion on your part that it is a consideration of her (South Carolinas
Page 168
168 OPERATJ& NS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
own dignity as a sovereign, and the safety of her people, which prompts
her to demand that this property should not longer be nsed as a mili-
tary post by a Government she no longer acknowledges, and the
thought you so constantly present, that this occupation must lead to a
collision of arms, and the prevalence of civil war.
Fort Sumter is in itself a military post, and nothing else; and it
would seem that not so mnch the fact as the purpose of its nse should
give to it a hostile or friendly character. This fortress is now held by
the Government of the United States for the same objects for which it
has been held from the completion of its construction. These are
national and defensive, and were a public enemy now to attempt the
capture of Charleston, or the destructiou of the commerce of its harbor,
the whole force of the batteries of this fortress would be at ouce exerted
for their protection. How the presence of a small garrison, actuated
by such a spirit as this, can compromise the dignity or honor of South
Carolina, or become a sonrce of irritation to her people, the President is
at a loss to understand. The attitude of that garrison, as has been often
declared, is neither menacing, nor defiant, nor unfriendly. It is acting
under orders to stand strictly on the defensive, and the government
and people of South Carolina must well know that they can never
receive aught but shelter from its guns, unless, in the absence of all
provocation, they should assault it, and seek its destruction. The intent
with which this fortress is held by the President is truthfully stated by
Senator Davis and others in their letter to yourself of the 15th of Janu-
ary, in which they say, It is not held with any hostile or unfriendly
purpose towards your State, but merely as property of the United
States, which the President deems it his duty to protect and preserve.
If the announcement, so repeatedly made, of the Presidents pacific
purposes in continuing the occupation of Fort Sumter until the ques-
tion shall have been settled by competent authority has failed to impress
the government of South Carolina, the forbearing conduct of his admin-
istration for the last few months should be received as conclusive evi-
dence of his sincerity; and if this forbearance, in view of the circum-
stances which have so severely tried it, be not accepted as a satisfactory
pledge of the peaceful policy of this administration towards South Car-
olina, then it may be safely affirmed that neither language nor conduct
can possibly furnish one. If, with all the multiplied proofs which exist
of the Presidents anxiety for peace and of the earnestness with which
he has pursued it, the authorities of that State shall assault Fort Sum-
ter and peril the lives of the handful of brave and loyal men shut up
within its walls, and thus plunge our common country into the horrors
of civil war,then upon them, and those they represent, must rest the re-
sponsibility.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. HOLT,
AS1ecretary of War.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Capt. J. G. FOSTER, Washington, February 6, 1861.
Corps of Engiiieers, Oharleston, S. C.:
SIR: I compliance with request communicated by your letter of the
31st ultitno, application has been made for $5,000, to be placed to your
credit with the assistant treasurer at New York, and to be charged t
Page 169
CHAP. I.]
169
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
you on account of Fort Sumter. Personal effort will be made to secure
this credit without delay, and you will be promptly informed as soon as
the remittance is made.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. 0-. TOTTEN,
Bvt. Brig. Gem, and Cot. Eng.
No. 35.] FoRT SUMTER, S. C., February 6, 1861.
(Received A. 0-. 0., February 9.)
Col. S. COOPER, A~jutant-Generat:
COLONEL: Nothing new. Still at work on Cummings Point, putting
np iron shutters yesterday in the embrasures. They are, I suspect, pretty
nearly ready over there. God grant that these people may not make
the attack which they have so long threatened.
I am, colonel, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
iJiajor, 1iir~t Artillery, Commanding.
Nb. 37.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 7, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 11.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-GeneraL:
COLONEL: The guard-boats were rather more on the alert last night
than they have been for three or four nights previous. Last night we
heard them, the South Carolinians, either at work on or moving pieces
of iron. This morning they are at work, apparently either extending
the bomb-proof on the seaward side or commencing to form a parapet
for guns or a blind on that flank. I observe in the last English papers
that a shipment of three rifled cannon has been made from England to
Charleston. Such an addition to their battery would make our position
much less secure than I have considered it; and if we are to have a col-
lisioii, which God forbid, would render it necessary to send on re-enforce-
ments in a few days after the commencement of hostilities.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 39.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 9, 1861.
(Received A. 0-. 0., February 12.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the South Carolina troops
continued their work yesterday, and they are also at work to-day on
Cummings Point. The bomb-proof battery appears nearly finished, and
there are now three guns (apparently heavy ones) mounted, bearing
upon us, in a barbette battery about three hundred yards eastward of
the bomb-proof battery, with which it appears to be connected by a
covered way. They are also making some additions to, or making some
alterations in, the mortar battery at Fort Johnson.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Ltommanding
Page 170
170 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 9, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN.
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Nothing of marked importance has transpired since the
date of my last letter. Your letters of the 2d and 6th are received.
The South Carolinians on Cummings Point have been occupied in per-
fecting the embrasures and merlons for the three guns in the field work
that bear most directly upon this fort, in connecting this battery with
the bomb-proof iron-covered battery by a curtain, and in completing
this latter battery and extending the parapet of its flanks. On Fort
Moultrie the merlons between the guns looking in this direction have
been still farther raised, made roof-shaped on top, and supported more
strongly by horizontal timbers, kept in place by braces extending across
the embrasures at the top. I am now mining the wharf, and am also to
arrange fougasses at different points on the exterior.
There does not appear to be very great activity among the South Car.
olinians, althot~gh the force is maintained the same.
I hear that five colmnbiads have arrived in the city from Richmond,
and more are expected.
It is reported that the floating battery prepared in the city is a failure,
the draught being greater than was expected.
Fery respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Gajptain, Engineers.
No. 40.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 10, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 13.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report everything quiet last night.
Ths morning (Sunday) I see a few men at work, apparently finishing
the npper iron woik on the slope of the bomb-proof battery. Three
large cannon are visible this morning in the huge embrasures of the
battery referred to yesteiday, near the bomb-proof battery. We are pre-
paring a few mines in front of and to the right and left of the entrance
of our work. I would thank the honorable Secretary to give me instruc-
tions in reference to vessels bearing the flags of foreign governments
in the event of the commencement of hostilities. I presume that no
vessel should pass the fort.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
- ROBERT ANDERSON,
Miajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 41.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 11, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
I have the honor to report the return of Lieutenant Hall, and to
acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 1st instant, communicating
the gratifying approbation of the honorable Secretary of War of my
course in relation to the tender of provisions by the governor of South
Carolina, & c.
Everything was quiet yesterday and last night, as far as we could
discover, around us. They are still at work with a small force on th
Page 171
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 171
bomb-proof battery, near which they are now (12 in.) lauding supplies
from a steamer.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Jfajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 42.] FoRT SUMTER, S. C., February 12, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to say that everything around us appears
quiet. They are now relieving the companies on Morris Islandthe
troops leaving would, we think, muster about 175. A steamboat is now
landing ammunition and other stores at Cummings Point.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 43.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 13, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 16.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that nothing unusual has oc-
curred, excepting that one of the South Carolina guard-boats came too
near to our walls last night, as noticed in my letter to the Hon. ID. F. Jam-
ison, a copy of which is herewith inclosed. Knowing that the Depart-
ment would be interested in them, I shall send herewith three sketches,
drawn by Captain Seymour, of this command, of Fort Johnson, Morris
Island, and Fort Moultrie.* These sketches represent very prettily and
accurately the batteries within our view, and other prominent objects in
their ~ricinity, as seen through a spy-glass from our fort.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, (Jommanding.
[Jnclosure.l
HEADQUARTERS, FORT SUIVJI[ER, S. C.,
His Excellency F. W. PICKENS, February 13, 1861.
Governor of South Carolina:
SIR: Knowing that your desire to prevent, and your determination,
as far as in your power, to guard against the recurrence of anything
calculated to add to the excitement which already unfortunately exists,
I deem it my duty to report that the guard-boats, and occasionally small
row-boats from Morris Island, have recently violated your orders by
coIning too near our walls. Yesterday morning one of the steamers.
the General Clinch, I thinkpassed very near, and last night the guard-
boats came nearer than was proper, twiceonce about midnight, and
again at 3.30 a. m.when a steamer, although warned off by the sentiiiel,
continued to approach, head on, until he fired his musket over her, when
she altered her course. The gun-battery guard, I am happy to say, did
not deem it necessary to fire.
Assuring you that every exertion will be made by me to guard against
* Here omitted. To appear in At1a~
Page 172
[CHAP. I.
172 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
any wrong act on the part of my command, and hoping that these boats
will henceforth be more particular in obeying your instruc tions,
I am, sir, with sentiments of the highest regard, & c.
ROBE ItT ANDERSON,
illiajor, U. S. Army, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. 0., February 13, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that since the date of my last
letter, the 11th, very little, apparently, has been done by the South
Carolinians around us. The weather yesterday was quite pleasant,
and a relief of some of the troops on Morris Island took place. I saw
about 150 land, and was told that about the same number went away.
A large number of negro laborers were likewise taken to the city, leaving
only a small number at work on the parapet of the field work on Cum-
mings Point.
This work appears to be nearly completed, and ready to open fire. In
the iron bomb-proof are three heavy guns, believed to be, and from all
reports are, 8-inch columbiads. The three guns farther to the left (our
left) are probably 24 or 32 pounders. Those still farther to the left
bearing on the channel and crossing their fire with the guns of Fort
Moultrie, are of the same caliber. There is at least one gun in this posi-
tion, and probably two. I cannot see them from the parapet on account
of an intervening sand hill, but I saw a gin at work at the position of
one of the guns. Fort Morris and the light-house battery have prob-
ably been strengthened.
One mortar was landed at Fort Johnson, aiid, it is reported, placed in
the new battery to the south of Fort Johnson. Fort Moultrie has
changed very little of late. A new flagstaff was erected a few days
since, and the new State flag hoisted thereon. It is not a handsome or
pleasant flag to look at, being a dark-blue grouiid, with a white pal-
metto and crescent thereon. At a distance it is not unlike a black flag,
with the piratical emblem (head and cross-bones) upon it.
In this fort the preparations continue with unabating activity. The
open spaces which were left for the second-tier enibrasures, and filled in
with a brick wall after we entered the fort, were the weakest points to
resist battering. I have had them re-enforced in various ways, some
with a solid wall of stone flagging, others with irons and lumber, and
others with earth packed in between two partitions of scantling and
boards. This work is not yet completed. The cement and bricks gave
out some time since. In a few days, however, I shall have these as
secure as necessary.
The next step will be to secure from breaching fire the loopholed win-
dows and piers between them on the gorge. I am preparing to plate
the main gate with half inch iron, to construct fougasses on the gorge
and upon each face, and to make more complete arrangements for using
shells and greiiades over the parapet. Yesterday I completed the mines
in the wharf~ and the preparations for firing them. I also cut down the
brick coping of the parapet on the gorge in front of one of the guns,
so as to allow it to be depressed so as to sweep the end of the wharf.
Upon trial it answered the expectations, and this morning the emubrasure
thus formed is being enlarged a little, so as to allow the canister (in bags)
to strike nearer an(1 sweel) more of the wharf.
The guard-boats were unusually active last night, and rather trouble-
some, too, for one of them, improving upon their ordinary tricks of run
Page 173
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
173
fling slowly past the fort at night with lights out, and close in to the
fort, suddenly turned and headed directly in towards the fort. When
very close our sentinel fired. The boat then sheered off and went out
towards the bar. Loud voices and noises, as of riotous conduct, are
reported as being heard on board.
If it should happen that supplies are sent to us by the Government,
would it not be well to include cement and bricks enough to form some
embrasures on the second tier~
I propose, if it meets your wishes, to write every day, if only a line,
so that you may know if there is any interruption of the commurn-
cation.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
P. 5.Please excuse the half sheets, for our paper is getting scarce.
No. 44.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 14, 1861.
(Received A. 0-. 0., February 21.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report everything quiet, as far as we
know, around us. Yesterday a few workmen were occupied apparently
fitting the blinds in the embrasures of the bomb-proof battery on Cum-
mings Point. A gun was fired yesterd%y in the direction of the channel
-from a point just eastward of the battery between the bomb-proof bat-
tery and the one which fired on the Star of the West, showing that
vessels will be nuder fire from Morris Island after they pass the first
battery.
I inclose another sketch * by Captain Seymour, showing the appearance
of our area-battery of one 10-inch columbiad and four 8-inch sea-coast
howitzers; also, a ground-plan indicating the positions and bearings of
the gnus in the area. These little memoranda, kindly and cheerfully
prepared by the captain, give clearer views of the batteries than I could
by my letters.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, Fir.~t Artillery, Commanding.
No. 45.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 15, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General:
COLONEL: I find that the adjutant made a mistake yesterday in not
sending the sketch mentioned in my letter. He thinks that there was
something in the envelope when he put the letter in which he supposed
was the sketch. I have added another sketch to-day exhibiting the
direction of and giving the distances from the walls of our work to the
surrounding batteries, & c. I send also a copy of the reply of the Hon.
ID. F. Jamison to my communication in reference to the guard-boats.
Like every other letter I have had from him, it is courteous and
straightforward. I have the honor to report that for the last twenty-
four hours nothing unusual has been noticed as having occurred around
us. Yesterday afternoon there was loud and long-continued cheering
at Cummings Point, but on what account we know not.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding..
* Here omitted. To appear in Atlas
Page 174
174
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
[CHAP. I.
[Inclosures.]
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF WAR,
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON: Charleston, S. 0., February 14, 1861.
SIR: Renewed instructions have been given to the officers command-
ing the night boats to keep at a proper distance from Fort Sumter, so
as to prevent any collision between our people and your troops, and I
hope you will have no further cause of complaint on the subject. 1 have
instructed Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch, quartermaster-general, to send
over to Fort Sumter the bundle and package mentioned in the note of
Dr. Crawford.
I am, sir, respectfully yours,
D. F. JA1VIJSOT.
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Page 175
ChAr. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 175
No. 46.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 16, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 19.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we cannot see that any
work is being carried on at either of the works in sight, except that at
Fort Moultrie they appear to be making some changes. They may,
perhaps, be engaged in removing some of the heaviest of the guns of
their battery, either to place them in the floating battery or on Morris
Island, where their fire would be more effective against this work than
it would be from Fort Moultrie. By the by, I shonid like to be in-
strncted dn a question which may present itself in reference to the
floating battery, viz: What course would it be proper for me to take
if, without a declaration of war, or a notification of hostilities, I should
see them approaching my fort with that battery? They may attempt
placing it within good distance before a declaration of hostile intention.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Gommanding.
The wind is freshening as though it may be the commencement of a
storm.
No. 47.] FORT SUMTER, S C., February 17, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 21.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to send herewith No. 44 [14th instant],
which was accidentally omitted when the mail was made up on the 14th
instant. I shall hereafter give my personal attention to the mailing of
my letters for your office.
We could not see any work prosecuted yesterday except that by small
gangs of negroes, who were shoveling sand at the western end of the
bomb-proof battery on Cummings Point.
I saw in the Charleston papers of yesterday a call by the chief en-
gineer for laborers to be engaged at work on the harbor defenses.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 17, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Everything is quiet, and there are no evidences of the
presence of many troops around us, nor of military preparation. The
assmnption of all questions relating to forts, arsenals, & c., by the Con-
gress of the Southern Confederacy appears to have placed a sudden
check upon the military enterprise of the South Carolinians. The only
operation performed yesterday was th~ firing of three shots from the
iron bomb-proof battery on Cummings Point, apparently for the pur-
pose of trying the etubrasure shutters. These shutters appear to be of
iron, and are arranged like a trap~door, with a hinge at the upper edge,
so that two men can open ithaving, j)robably, a counterpoise in the
interior
Page 176
[CHAP. I.
176 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
I think these batteries can be destroyed by our fire by concentrating
it upon one einbrasure at a time, and aiming at the embrasure itself.
I cannot yet determine what is being done at Fort Moultrie. In ad-
(lition to the sand bags, which raises the sole of the exterior about two
feet, the whole embrasure Ls filled with a large bag of wool or cotton.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Gaptain of Engineers.
No. 48.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 18, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we did not observe that
any work was being carried on within view yesterday except by a small
party of negroes, engaged in extending the covered way from the bomb.
proof battery in the direction of the steamboat landing near it.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, Fir8t Artillery, Commanding.
No. 49.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 19, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the South Carolinians are
still at work near the bomb-proof battery on Cummings Point. I am
not certain as to their intentions. The accompanying sketch, just taken
by Captain Seymour, shows the appearance of their work as we see it
from our walls.*
We are daily adding to our defensive arrangements. I have had the
parapet cut down in front of one of the 24-pounders on the gorge, which,
by a slight alteration of the carriage, & c., enables me to get a dej~res-
sion of 18~O, thus commanding, with a charge of canister, the greater
portion of the wharf and the right basin. I am also having some of
the flagging removed at the base of the wall in various places, thus
obstructing their movements in the event of their effecting a landing
at the base of our work.
I am, colonel, very respectfully; your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
~11iajoi~, First Artillery, Commanding.
P. 5.Since the above letter was written, the inclosed copy was
handed inc of the proceedings of the council of administration on the
application of the Rev. Mr. Menes, of Bath, Me., for the chaplaincy of
this post. Although very (lesirous of having the i)rivilege of having a
chaplain here, I cannot but think that in the present condition of
affairs, and this, too, not having l)een designated as a chaplaincy Post,
it would not be expedient to have one now sent us. I appreciate very
highly the motives which appear to have governed the reverend gentle-
man in making his application, and regret that it has notbeen deemed
proper to ask that his request should be granted.
Respectfully,
R.A.
* Here omitted. To appear in Atlas
Page 177
CHAr. I.]
177
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
Washington, D. C., February 20, 1861.
Lieut. Col. HENRY L. SCOTT, A. D. C., die., New York:
See Captain Ward, commanding the North Carolina, receiving ship,
and ask him to get his squadron ready as soon as he caii, and let you
know how many recruits he will want in addition to his marines learn,
also, what snbsistence stores he will want, including a. good quantity of
desiccated vegetables; also coals, & c. See that he is supplied with
everything for Anderson. I shall write to-morrow. No time now.
Afraid of the wires.
WINFIELD SCOTT.
No. 50.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 20, 1861.
(Received A. U. 0., Febrii~ry 23.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the work, a sketch of
which was sent yesterday, is this morning nearly as high as the bomb-
proof battery. Another battery has been discovered on Morris Island,
just under the point of the woods, and to the right of and near to the
battery from which the Star of the West was fired upon. See sketch of
that island forwarded in No. 45. *
They are also extending the glacis in front of the southwest face of
Fort Moultrie.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBEf~T ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 20, 1861.
General Jos. U. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Not having yet been able to obtain my papers from the
office in the city, although I have made arrangements by which I shall
soon get them, I thought it best to ~end off at once the monthly papers,
and then to make out and send the cash statements and quarterly re-
turns as soon as I obtain my vouchers from town. I therefore inclose
to-day the following, viz:
Report of operations for Fort Sumter for December, 1860.
ReI)ort of operations for preservation of site of Fort Moultrie for De-
cember, 1860.
Report of operations for Castle Piuckney for December, 1860.
* * * * * * *
The operations of the South Carolinians around us are principally
confined to their line of works on Cummings Point, westward towards
the extreme point of the land. The negroes that were brought down
day before yesterday are still at work upon the embankment of the
parapet of this extension. It is probably their intention to form either
a mortar battery or another breaching battery. The work, however,
does not advance very rapidly. This is partly due to the weather,
~x hidi, with the exception of some few pleasant days, has been exces-
sively unfavorable to field op~ rations, almost from the very day we came
12 R R
Not found, but see ineiosure in Foster to Totten, April 5, post
Page 178
[CHAP. T.
178 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
from Fort Moultrie. In addition, it strikes inc that there is 110 great
vigor exhibited in hurrying forward the work at present.
The arrangement that I spoke of above for getting my vouchers and
the records of the office is this: General Jamisoii, Seeretary of War of
South Carolina, in reply to a request from me either to allow my former
clerk to collect apd send down my papers, & c., or to permit my present
clerk to go to town for this purpose, has informed me that he has
directed my former clerk (now Lieut. Jos. J. Legar& ~, South Carolina En-
gineer Corps) to collect and send to me all the propert) iii my office in
town, belonging to me or the Government of the United States, that
I might want. I have accordingly written to send all the vouchers,
papers, recotds, and maps.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER.
Captain of Engineers.
Linclosures.]
JANUARY 1,1861.
Extract from report of operations at Fort Sumter, S. C., for the month of
December, 1860.
* * * * * * *
The operations of the month were steadily increased from the 1st to
the 26th. The casemate arches were completed the bluestone flagging
of the first tier inside of the outer traverse circles was laid on the two
faces and a part of the right flank; all of the traverse stones of the first
tier were reset; the granite flagging of the second tier on the right face
-was laid; the construction of the embrasures of the second tier was
commenced, and the finishing of the east barrack was also commenced.
On the night of the 26th Major Anderson transferred his command
from Fort Moultrie to Fort Sumter, and assumed command of the fort.
The Engineer force broke up on the morning of the 28th, amid the ma-
jority of the men left the fort. The regular work was then stopped, and
all the remaining force was at once put at work mounting guns, under
charge of Lieutenant Snyder, and otherwise preparing to meet and re-
pulse any attack that the forces of the State might make upon us.
The few remaining days of the monJh were thus employed. A con-
siderable quamitity of material remainiiig on hand was of great value in
making the preparations, and everything xvas freely used for this pur-
jose.
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., January 1, 1861.
Extract from report of operations at prc~crration of the site of Fort ]Iilioul-
trie, for the month of December, 1860.
* * * * * * *
The operations of the month were brought to a sudden close by the
evacuation of the fort by Major Andersons command, on the night of
the 26th of December, and its occupation by the troops of South Carolina
on the following evening. My letters previous to that time gave so
full an account of the work being done that it is unnecessary to repeat
it here, especially as the report is delayed much beyond the usual time.
Respectfully submitted.
J. G. FOSTER,~
Captain of Engineers
Page 179
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 179
FORT SUMTER, January 1, 1861.
Extract from report of operations at Castle Pinckney, Charleston Harbor,
~. (I., for the month of Thcember, 1660.
* * * * * * *
The operations of the month comprise the organization of the mess-
ing and lodging arrangements for the party, the policing of the work,
the putting all the guns and carriages in good working order, the
repairing and securing of the erubrasure shutters and the main gate, the
rebuilding of the cistern in the east circular half bastion, and the corn-
mencemnent to rebuild the wooden banquettes in the half bastions. The
work, with all the property that it contained, was forcibly taken posses-
sion of on the afternoon of the 27th, by the troops of South Carolina, an
entrance being elThcted by scaling the wall at the circular bastion by
means of ladders.
Lient. It. K. Meade, Corps of Engineers, in charge, was suffered to
withdraw to Fort Sumter, where he reported to me.
Respectfully submitted.
J. G. FOSTER,
Gaptain of Engineers.
IIEADQUART~R5 OF THE ARMY,
Washington, D. C., February 21, 1861.
Lient. Col. HENRY L. SCOTT, Acting Adjutant- General, New Yorlc:
SIR: I inclose a copy of a memorandum made by Lieutenant Hall,
showing what articles are required at Fort Sumter, in addition to the
usual supplies of the Subsistence Department, which the General-in-Chief
wishes you to take measures to procure and have transferred to Captain
Ward of the Navy, if he can take them on his vessels.
Please also have prepared as large a supply of subsistence as Captain
Ward can take, including desiccated vegetables and potted meats.
When the expedition under Captain Ward shall sail (time yet uncer-
tain) he may require a detachment of from fifty to two hundred recruits,
with or without officers as he may wish. See that they are conadentially
prepared for that service.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. THOMAS,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
No 51.1 FOR~T SUMTER, S. C., February 21, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that they are still busily occu-
pied extending the work at Cummings Point, and also the glacis at Fort
Moultric. We are placing the heavy pieces of wrought iron, intended
for the second tier of embrasures, in the outer recesses of the windows
of the second-story gorge front. They will act as good fenders there.
I am, colonel, very respectfully your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding
Page 180
180 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [Ca& r. I.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 21, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a roll of
letter paper from the Engineer Office. The work on the hostile bat-
teries on Cummings Point continues slowly.
This morning a flag was raised up on a flagstaff situated nearly in the
middle of the north front of the portion of the entrenchazients denomi-
nated the field work in uiy letter of the 27th January. The body
of the flag is red, with a blue union in the upper staff corner, having
upon it the palmetto and crescent in white.
My operations continue. The plating of
the outer gate with half-inch iron will be
completed at noon to-day. The placing of
the cheek irons for the embrasures in the re-
cesses of the windows on the gorge, second
/ tier, has been carried as far as the main
/ gate from the southeast angle. The irons
are placed as shown in the margin. Stones
are placed in the recesses on the first tier.
These, although not as good as they might
be, will answer for the present, and if broken by a breaching fire caii be
more easily replaced than they could be if they were on the second tier.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTEI~,
Gaptain, Engineers.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
New York, February 22, 1861.
[Col. L. THOMAS, A. A. G.:]
SIn: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your confiden-
~tial letter of the 21st instant, conveying instructions of the General-in-
Chief. I have already taken steps towards executing those instructions,
by conferring with Captain Ward, of the Navy, and the quartermaster
and commissary of subsistence on duty in this city. I shall see Major
Thornton to-morrow. Captain Ward will not be able to take any bales
of hay ror bedding purposes, and at his suggestion I propose to~ send
mattresses to Fort Sumter instead, unless objected to by the General-in
Chief. Captain Ward will provide the coal and wood which Lieutenant
Halls memorandum calls for. In relation to clothing, I am unable to
make out what the memorandum requires. Instead, therefore, of
writing myself to Philadelphia, I beg that the necessary orders may be
given from Washington to the clothing officers in Philadelphia to send
to Colonel Tompkins here the clothing required by the memorandum,
and the garrison flag and cord for lanyards on this same memorandum.
I shall see that everything else on the memorandum is provided here,
including such groceries as nziight be for sale to officers, & c. The
clothing should be put up in small bales, so that it may be distributed
among the vessels. Colonel Tompkins will attend to its proper mark-
ing after its arrival here. Please let me know as soon as you give th
Page 181
Cm~r. .1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 181
order to the clothing department. I saw Commodore Bruce, who will
do all that he can, but hopes to receive instructions.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
II. L. SCOTT.
P. S.I have arranged with Captain Ward to send all the stores, & c.,
on board the North Carolina, addressed to him. He will attend to
their (listribution among his vessels.
II. L. S., Lieutenant-Colonel.
No. 524 FORT SUMTER, S C., February 22, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that they are forming three
embrasures in the work near the bomb-proof battery. We are, as I
write (12 in.), firing a national salute from our battery in honor of the
day.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 22, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington D. C.:
GENERAL: The work on the third breaching battery on Cummings
Point has progressed so that the embrasures, three in number, are being
commenced. Some work was also done on Fort Moultrie yesterday and
the day before; at least it was commenced the day before. This con-
sists of a parapet of earth in front of the scarp wall of the front that faces
us, apparently intended to serve as a glacis, as it rises to the height of
the cordon. It is revetted on the side next the scarp wall with barrels,
and has a pretty steep slope upon the side towards us.
I-
U
I
0
fj~
The parallelogram a b shows its position very nearly. This sketch in
b]ack* shows in a rough way the condition of the fort when we left it,
In original sketch a b is drawn in red
Page 182
182 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. 1.
being bordered on all sides but one with a shallow wet ditch and picket
fence, which fence was again protected by a small glacis in front of it.
The large glacis on the sea front was very nearly completed, and the
second caponiere would have been completed and the guns mounted in
four days.
This morning atsunrise a salute of thirteen guns was fired from Castle
Piuckney. I understand that Major Anderson has ordered a salute to
be fired at noon to-day.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
WAR DEPARTMENT, February 23, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Artillery, Commanding Fort Sivmter, Charleston Harbor, S. C.:
SIR: It is proper I should state distinctly that you hold Fort Sumter
as you held Fort Moultrie, nuder the verbal orders communicated by
Major Buell,* subsequently modified by instructions addressed to you
from this Department, under date of the 21st of December, 1860.
In your letter to Adjutant-General Cooper, of the 16th instant, you say:
I should like to be instructed on a qnestion which may present itself in reference to
the floating battery, viz: What coarse would it be proper for me to take if, without
a declaration of war or a-notification of hostilities, I should see them approaching my
fort with that battery? They may attempt placing it within good distance before a
declaration of hostile intention.
It is not easy to answer satisfactorily this important question at this
distance from the scene of action. In my letter to you of the 10th of Jan-
uary I said:
You will continue, as heretofore, to act strictly on the defensive, and to avoid, by
all means compatible with the safety of your command, a collision with the hostile
forces by which you are surrounded.
The policy thus indicated must still govern your conduct.
The President is not disposed at the present moment to change the
instructions under which you have been heretofore acting, or to occupy
any other than a defensive position. It; however, you are convinced by
sufficient evidence that the raft of which you speak is advancing for the
purpose of making an assanlt upon the fort, then you would be justified
on the principle of self-defense in not awaiting its actual arrival there,
but in repelling force by force on its approach. If, on the other hand,
you have reason to believe that it is approachin~ merely to take up a
position at a good distance should the pending question be not amicably
settled, then, unless your safety is so clearly endangered as to render
resistance an act of necessary self-defense and protection, you will act
with that forbearance which has distinguished you heretofore in permit-
ting the South Carolinians to strengthen Fort Moultrie and erect new
batteries f ~r the defense of the harbor. This will be but a redemption
of the implied pledge contained in in~ letter on behalf of the President
to Colonel ilayne, in which, when speaking of Fort Sumter, it is said:
The attitude of that garrison, as has been often declared, is neither menacing, nor
defiant, nor un friendly. It is acting under orders to stand strictly ou the defensive,
and the government and people of South Carolina must know that they can never
receive aught but shelter from its guns, nuless, in the absence of all provocation, they
should assault it and seek its destruction.
* See Major BacHs memorandum, December 11, 1860, p. 89
Page 183
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE~ ETC.UNION. 183
A dispatch received in this city a few days since from Governor Pick-
ens, connected xiith the declaration on the part of those convened at
Montgomery, claiming to act on behalf of South Carolina as well as the
other seceded States, that the question of the possession of the forts and
other public property therein had been taken from the decision of the
individual States and would probably be preceded in its settlement by
negotiation with the Government of the United States, has impressed
the President with a belief that there xvill be no immediate attack on
Fort Sumter, and the hope is indulged that wise and patriotic counsels
may prevail and prevent it altogether.
The labors of the Peace Congress have not yet closed, and the, pres-
ence of that body here adds another to the powerftil motives already
existing for the adoption of every measure, except in necessary self
defense, for avoiding a collision with the forces that surround you.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. HOLT.
Yo. 53.] FoRT SUMTER, S. C., February 23, 1861.
(Iteceived A. G. 0., February 26.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to send herewith some slips from the
Charleston Mercury of yesterday. That paper publishes everything
that is calculated to bring on a collision. I do not consi(ler the rumor
worthy of the least attention, but it accounts for the increased vigor
exhibited last night, and continued to-day, in pushing forward their
works on Cummings Point and at Fort Moultrie. They were working
at the former place until midnight last night, and a large force is busy
there now on the parapet (in which openings are formed apparently
for ftur embrasures), and in hauling up timbers from a raft. A large
shed has been put up, which may be intended for a bomb-proof store-
house or a magazine. At Fort Moultrie the glacis is being rapidly ex-
tended, and it is high enough to cover their wall, as if they expected
me to attempt breaching it. They are also at work this morning on the
gun battery at Fort Johnson.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Jiliajor, First Artillery, Commanding
[Inclosures.]
FEDERAL itE-ENFORCEMENTS AT HAND.
The special dispatches of the Mercury announcing that a stealthy re-enforcement of
Fort Sumter had been determined on, and that Federal troops, in boats, might be
expccte(i at any moment that circumstances should happen to favor their attempt to
reach the fort, were confirmed about 9 oclock last night by telegrams r3ceived by the
governor. Shortly afterwards dispatches came up from Fort Moultric, stating that
the lieuenant in charge of the harbor watch had reported that he was informed by a
pilot that the steamship Daniel Webster had been seen by him off Capo Jiomain at
noon. Notice was immediately given to the different posts. General Dunovant and
Captain Ra~niltoii proceeded immediately to Fort Monitrie; Major Stevens repaired
to the Morris Island batteries. Everything was got in readiness for the expected
visitors.
tJj to the hour at which we go to press (half past 4 oclock) there has been nothing
seen either of the Daniel Webster or her boats. We re very sure that the gallant
troops on Morris and Sullivans Islands will keep a bright lookout for both
Page 184
184 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. CRAP. T.
SECOND DISPATCH.
WASHINGTON, February 216 p. m.
There is the best of reason for believing that HoE designs rs-enforcing secretly, by
boats, at night. The re-enforcements have already been sent. You may look out for
them at any moment. The programme is also to surround Fort Pickens with ships of
war. That post is considered impregnable to the Southern forces. The whole anxiety
of Scott and the coercionists centers now in Fort sumter. There the Cabinet has de-
termined that Lincoln shall find everything ready to his hand.
Fonr SUMTER.---The Washington correspondents of Northern papers are continually
disposing of this formidable post in divers ways. The last bnlletin which we notice
settles the fact in this summary style:
I pave just read a private letter from a citizen of South Carolina, formerly in Con-
gress from that State, which states that Fort Sumter will be taken, at whatever cost
of life, on or before the 4th of March next. The writer is himself to ake part in the
enterprise, and as he is also perfectly well informed in regard to the intentions of the
State authorities, it may be considered that this information settles the fact, if there
is any doubt of it, that the fort is to be taken, and without reference to what the
Montgomery government may advise or order on the subject.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 23, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the work upon the bat-
teries on Cummings Point was continued last night until 12 oclock.
This increased activity seemed to have been consequent upon the visit
of some official of rank, probably Governor Pickens, to these batteries in
the afternoon. Guns were fired from the batteries and from Fort Moul-
trie in considerable numbers about the same time that the steamers
[arrived] bearing the person or persons who were visiting the batteries,
and were either salutes of six and seven guns each or were merely l)rac-
tice firing. The I)lilicipal work consists of that upon the battery that I
reported yesterday as being in process of construction, and upon the
erection of sheds of this form
T///7j~7J7f/77
which yon perceive can be turned into bomb-proofs, covering them with
earth. One of the3e, situated at the extreme western point of Cum-
mings Point, is already up, and a sufficient number of rafts were towed
there last night to construct two or three more.
At Fort Moultrie a force of about fifty laborers is still at work em-
banking the glacis in front of the thee towards us. Yesterday I com-
pleted placing the cheek irons for the embrasures in the recesses of the
windows on the gorge, and to-day I shall charge the fougasses on the
esplanade at the gorge, and then commence clearing the parade of rub-
bish. I have also to take down another temporary building to obtain
fuel. I have a second one yet standing, tii at will furnish fuel as long
as the provisions will last. The weather is very pleasant and warm.
I received from the Department another roll of writing paper to-day,
with two bundles of envelopes, one of large and the other of medium
letter size.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTEII,
(Japtain, Engineers
Page 185
CHM?. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 185
No. 54.] FORT SUMTER, S C., February 24, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that operations mentioned in
No. 53 were continued through the day. Early this morning a few
negroes were seen shoveling sand at the new battery on Cummings
Point, but, perhaps, in respect for the day, the work appears to be now
suspended.
I feel that I have omitted too long placing officially on record the
expression of my acknowledgments and thanks for the kindness shown
by Asst. Surg. S. W. Crawford, Medical Department, and Lieutenants
Snyder and Meade, 111. 5. Engineer Corps, in volunteering to relieVe the
company officers of this post by taking their turns as officers of the day.
Dr. Crawford commenced taking his tour as officer of the day regu-
larly soon after we came over here, and Lieutenants Snyder and Mea(le
offered their services as soon as they felt themselves at liberty to do so.
I am under many obligations to these gentlemen for tli~ir having thus
conic forward to the relief of their brother officers, on whom the duties
of the post were pressing very heavily.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 55.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 25, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., February 25.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjntant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that yesterday, after midday,
large parties were at work at Cummings Point on a new battery and on
the covered way leading from the bomb-proof battery to the first battery
to the eastward of it, and a~lso on the gun battery at Fort Johnson. They
are placing muck on the mortar battery at Fort Johnson. This morning
a large force is engaged cii the covered way on Cummings Point, and
smaller parties on the new battery this side of the bomb-proof battery,
and extending the glacis at Fort Moultrie. I am having some of my
guns moved from the right to the left face of this fort, where they will
be equally effective for the purpose I wish them, and will be safe from
the fire of the Morris Island battery constructed to take them in the
flank
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 25, 1861.
General Jos. 0-. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL:
* * * * * * *
The sudden chang-e from the warm temperature of yesterday to th~
cold and wind of to-day seems to have a chilling effect upon the negro
laborers employed on the parapet of the new battery at Cummings
Point, and they have been mostly withdrawn and placed at work in
the ditch of the curtain connecting the iron bomb-proof battery and th
Page 186
186 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
three-gun baftery in the field work to the east. The high wind of last
night blew down the storehouse and quarters that I mentioned yester-
day and the day before.
At the mortar battery sonth of Fort Johnson a party commenced
work soon after dinner yesterday (Sunday) and worked until night,
throwing np a mass of muck in front of and against the parapet, appar-
ently to protect it from the wash of the surf, and also to increase its
thickness.
On Fort Moultrie they are still at work at the glacis. It appears
now that it is not so nearly parallel to the face that fronts us as I drew it
in my letter two days since, but rather inclines to be parallel with the
beach. It is already extended so as to cross Fort street. It is evi-
dent that this may be used as a shelter for a line of mortars, but I
hardly believe it will be so used, as there is already built a battery for
mortars lower down the island.
The South Carolinians had only thrce or four mortars, and I have
heard of the arrival of but three since the commencement of hostile
preparations.
The health of the command is very good, with no sickness among the
officers or men of sufficient importance to take them from a single day~s
duty. Major Anderson is and has been well, and there was no founda-
tion for the report of his illness.
I received yesterday a note from Captain Wright, containing ~ome
interesting private information, and take this means of acknowledging
it, so that he may know that it was received.
I have thehonor to be, very respectfully, & c.,
J. G. FOSTElI,
Captain of Engineers.
No. 56.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 26, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army;
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that they appear to be strength-
ening the covered way on Cummings Point, and that they are this morn-
ing fitting in the timber frame for the third embrasure of the battery at
the end of the point nearest to us. They are still at work ou the glacis at
Fort Moultrie, and appear to have extended wings back from the mor-
tar battery near Fort Johnson.
I am, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant,
IIOBEIIT ANDElISON,
Major, U. ~. Army, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February 26, 1861.
General Jos. (1. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Very little appears to be done since yesterday, although
quite a large force of laborers have been at work upon the third breach-
ing battery and upon the curtain connecting the first and the second
(the iron bomb-proof battery). A second embrasure was formtd in the
third battery. The work upon the curtain has apparently for object to
excavate the ditch deeper, throwing out all the sand that had blown in,
and to make the parapet stronger. It will thus serve as an admirabl
Page 187
CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 187
position for a line of mortars. The work on the other batteries around
ns was hardly worthy of note yesterday.
The troops on Fort Moultrie Practiced with ball to obtain the ranges
of the channel anti especially of that point in the main channel where
it turns towards the city. The buoy on this side of the channel at this
point is five eighths of a mile from as, in a direction a little south of east.
The practice was excellent, all the shot striking the water nearly in the
same spot; so it will be seen that the ranges are well understood now,
and any vessel coming in must not expect to fare as well as the Star of
the West.
The second fongasse on the gorge was charged, means for firing ar-
ranged, and the stone loaded upon it during the day yesterday.
I am to submit to-day to Major Anderson a written memorandum of
the condition of the work and its capabilities to resist a bombardment,
together with any additional preparations that I have to suggest. He
also requires the same of Lieutenants Snyder and Meade.
I am now taking down a third temporary building to obtain fuel.
There are two other buildings remaining, besides which are twelve gun
carriages. I have a small quantity of new lumber reserved for emer-
genoics. Our supl)lies and mails come from town as usual.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Gajptain of Engineers.
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
Maj. R. ANDERSON, Washington, February 28, 186 t.
First Artillery, Commanding Fort Sumter, Charleston, S. C.
SIR: I acknowledge the receipt of your several communications, in-
eluding No. 55, of the 25th instant. The Secretary of War directs me
to send you the inclosed slip, and to say that the Peace Convention yes-
terday agreed upon the basis of a settlement of our political difficulties,
which was reported to Congress. The Secretary entertains the hope
that nothing will occur now of a hostile character.
I am, sir, & c.,
S. COOPER, Adjutant- General.
Inclosure.]
The Commissioners from the Southern Confederacy are expected to
arrive here before the close of this week. They are accredited to the
incoming administration, and pending the efforts to negotiate, nothing
will be done calculated to disturb the public peace.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., February, 28, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Yesterday and to-day being pleasant, the work upon the
Cummings Point batteries has progressed well. The third battery for
breaching is nearly completed, three embrasures being fully constructed
and a fourth nearly so. Four 24-pounder guns were landed yesterday,
evidently to arm this batter& . They were upon siege carriages
Page 188
188 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
The work that 11 spoke of in my last letter as being commenced upon
the middle of the curtain, connecting the first breaching battery and
the second, has not sufficiently developed itself to be positive in its
character, but it appears to be a large magazine and a battery for three
or more guns. A considerable force is also at work on that portion of
the field work looking towards Fort Moultrie and the channel, but I
cannot see what is being done. I have no doubt that it is the construc-
tion of one or more embrasures, in addition to the one there before, to
fire on the channel. The floating raft intended to be used to breach the
walls of this fort was launched yesterday in town. I can see it with my
glass. The iron does not appear to have been yet put upon the timber.
If Jam correct in this, it will require several days to prepare it for
action.
Yesterday I was principally employed in demolishing the temporary
building for fuel, removii~g , & c., of blacksmith shop to the
casemates, clearing the parade, & c.
I have strongly recommended the increasing of the present armament
of the gorge (six 24-pounders) at once, by means of the casemate car-
riages, so altered as to answer for barbette carriages, but the recommen-
dation has not yet been acted on.
I did not write to the Department yesterday morning, having been
closely employed until it was too late to do so before the mail closed.
Very respectfiuily, your obedient servant,
J. U. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
No. 59.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., ilfarch 1, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U~ S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that nothing unusual occurred
to-day, except the arrival from the city of a steamboat, fully loaded with
troops, at Sullivans Island. The works around us are being carried on
with the same activity as heretofore. Yesterday some guns were fired
from a battery on Sullivans Island to the eastward of the Moultrie
House.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]liLajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C -, March 1, 1861.
General Jos. U. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S Army, Washington, ft C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that nothing of importance
connected with the hostile batteries around us has transpired since I
wrote yesterday. The work then in progress on the batteries on Cum-
mings Point has continued steadily, but without any marked activity;
the fourth embrasure in battery No. 3 (breaching) is revetted and the
parapet nearly finished; the work on the curtain of 1 and 2 is either
a magazine or a bomb-proof of timber to be used as a battery, like
battery No. 2. Little of note is observed at Fort Moultrie. The large
bag of cotton or wool still remains in each embrasure precisely as it
was placed some time ago, which makes me now believe that the guns
on that face have really been dismounted to be used in other batteries
Page 189
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 189
The guns looking toward the channel are covered by high and solid
nierlons so that they cannot be taken in flank, and are kept in good work.
ing order, as is evidenced by their frequent practice. Last evening the
South Carolinians practiced from the batteries on Cummings Point,
from Fort Moultrie, and from the channel battery above the Moultrie
House, on Sullivans Island. I cannot obtain with the glass satisfac-
tory observations of what is being done with the floating breach battery
or raft. I am inclined to think, however, from information, that there
is a distrust of its success in the minds of many military men in the city.
I think it can be destroyed by our fire before it has time to do much
damage.
I received yesterday directions from Major Anderson which I gladly
proceeded to execute, to the effi~ct to increase the armament of the bar-
bette tier in the way recommended by all the Engineer officers. I
have put Liententant Snyder and the whole gang of workmen at this
work. We will adapt one caseinate carriage to serve for barbette and
mount one 42-pounder to-day.
In obedience to requirement all the officers handed in to Major
Anderson confidential estimates of the force necessary to insure a
re-enforcement of this fort, or to relieve it, yesterday momning. These
were sent to Washimgton.* My estimate was as follows: To land and
carry the batteries on Cummings Point and Morris Island, 3,000 regu-
lars, or 10,000 volunteers; to land and carry the batteries on Sullivans
Island (at time same time), 3,000 regulars, or 10,000 volunteers more; to
hoh~ the above positions after taking them, 10,000 regulars, or 30,000
volunteers. The forces to be overcome in the attack are supposed to
be those of the South Carolinians, aided by troops that may be gathered
from the adjoining States at short notice.
If time be given for concentration of the troops of this section the
above estimate will be inadequate.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 2, 1861.
[General TOTTEN:]
GENEuAL: There is very little activity to be observed in the surround-
ing batteries this morning, althongh the weather is remarkably fine.
The little that is being done is in the field work on Cummings Point,
which is being enlarged to the eastward, evidently with a view of
covering the whole of this point with the work, having the l)arapet as
near high-water line as practicable, as it now is in that portion of the
work towards us. The batteries will then all be included in a continu-
ous line, extending from the point towards the entrance to Light-house
Creek, around to the seaward. The breaching battery ~o. 3 is com-
pleted, as is also the work on the middle of the curtain of 1 and 2,
which is a muortar battery witim a magazine.
The cheering news from Washington of the action of the Peace
Conference and of the House of Representatives gave us great satis-
faction.
One 42-pounder gun was put in position and the carriage put in good
order, so that the gun can be used with more effect than the others on
the barbette tier. Three 32-pounders are being removed to the gorge,
* See inclosure D, following Lincoln to Cameron, March 15, p. 2O~2
Page 190
190 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. I.
and as soon as this is done a 42-pounder will next be mounted there.
After this, we will make an effort, with some new blocks that we have
made, to raise a 10-inch columbiad and to mount it at the right gorge
angle.
I have the hoiior to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. (A-. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
No. 63.] FORT SUMTER, S C., March 5, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that parties are working to-day
on the mortar battery at Fort Johnson, which they are making higher
and stronger, and on the Morris Island batteries, numbered on Captain
Seymours sketch Nos. 1, 9, and 10. They are filling the embrasures
in this last battery, in which we see that one gun has been placed.
They are also at work on the covered way connecting Nos. 9 and 7~*
I presume, from the movements around us yesterday, that Brig. Gen.
P. (1. T. Beauregard assumed command and made an inspection of the
forts, & c., in this harbor, which are garrisoned by the South Carolina
troops.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 5, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The work on the Cummings Point batteries continues
steadily. This morning the greatest number of laborers seem to be
employed in repairing the injuries to the parapets caused by the wind
of yesterday and the wind and rain of last night. The work in the
third breaching battery yesterday indicated that the platforms for the
guns were being laid, and that it was being made ready for its guns; one
24-pounder has stood in front of it for three days. A small working
party is still engaged upon the mortar battery on James Island. It is
reported from the city that the floating battery does not come up to
anticipations, inasmuch as it draws s~ven feet of water without its
armament, and requires a conuterpoise on the reverse to conuteract the
tendency to tip towards the front, owing to the weight of the shield
on that side. Yesterday three steamers landed troops and supplies on
Cummings Point, and appearances indicated that preparations - were
making for immediate action in case the news from Washington ex-
hibited a coercive policy on the part of the administration. It is
reported that General Beauregard visited the batteries on Cummings
Point yesterday.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
* Here omitted. To appear in Atlas
Page 191
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 191
No. 64.1 FORT SUMTER, ]tfarch 6, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., March 9.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that a very large re-enforcement
was landed last night at Cummings Point and bivouacs near No. 10.
This morning it was marched out of sight, around the point of the island.
Yesterday the three other guns were mounted in No. 10, thus completing
its armament of four heavy pieces. They continued working yesterday
at the places mentioned in my report, and are still so occupied to-day.
A party has also been at work this morning on the Fort Moultrie glacis.
Everything indicates activity and determination.
I had the honor to present in No. 58* my opinion of the strength of
the army which will be necessary to force an entrance into the harbor.
The pre~ence here, as commander, of General Beauregard, recently of
the U. S. Engineers, insures, I think, in a great measure the exercise of
skill and sound judgment in all operations of the South Carolinians in
this harbor. God grant that our country may be saved from the
horrors of a fratricidal war!
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER S C March 6 1861
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chi~f Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that during the day, and es-
pecially towards night, unusual activity was observed among th~ South
Carolinians around us. Several steamer loads of men were landed Oil
Cummings Point. The number was greater than the arrangements for
shelter, apparently, for I observe quite a large number grouped about
their bivouac fires this morning. Their suffering must have been con-
siderable during the night, for the weather suddenly changed from the
warni temperature of the preceding days to a high degree of cold for
this climate, the wind blowing fresh from the north.
I learn that portable hot-shot furnaces have been furnished to several,
and probably all, of the batteries. The mortar battery on James Island,
south of Fort Johnson, is armed, but the number of mortars is not ascer-
tained. The magazine in the flank of this battery is also finished. The
mortar battery on Sullivans Island, west of Fort Moultrie, is also armed.
All the batteries on Morris Island are armed. The guns range from
32-pounders down, with the exception of the iron bomb-proof, which is
(I think, from all reports and observations) armed with 8inch calum.
biadsthree of them.
The raft does not meet expectations. It is being covered with railroad
strap-iron instead of the T rail. This has a cross-section of about three-
fourths or one inch by two inches or two and a half inches. They are
now ironing the top portion, the front not being yet commenced. Two
8-inch columbiads are lying on the wharf ready to be put on board. I
do not think this floating battery will prove very formidable.
We have not yet received the inaugural address of President Lincoln,
although it is reported from town that it is coercive in its character, and
that much excitement prevails.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~ G. FOSTER,
Gaptain, Engineers.
* No. 58, and several other of Andersons letters, not found
Page 192
192 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHArT.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 7, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The increased activity exhibited in the batteries of the
South Carolinians yesterday continues this morning. The work on
Morris Island is mostly confined to the strengthening of breach battery
No. 3. On James Island a considerable force is still engaged in strength-
ening the mortar battery. Generally speaking, there is more earnestness
exhibited now than for several days previous to the 5th instant. The
Confederate flag was displayed yester(lay from the custom-house. Gen-
eral Beauregard is, it is understood, in command of the forces here
under the authority of the Confederation. The reception on Morris
Island that we observed on the 4th was that of Governor Pickens and
General Beauregard.
I have received the two letters of the 2d and a copy of Major Mor.
decais report.
Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
No. 67.] FoRT SUMTER, S. C, March 9, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., March 12.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant- General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we can see the South Car-
olinians engaged this morning strengthening and extending considerably
what We supposed to have been intended for a mortar battery at Fort
Johnson. Small parties are also working at Nos. 9 and 10, and a very
heavy force at the bend of the island, this side of No. 1. Whether they
are constructing another battery there, or strengthening one that is al-
ready there, I cannot tell. One of my officers reports that he has counted
nine 24-pounders which have been landed at Cummings Point within a
week. Yesterday he saw several shot or shells, which appeared to be
about eight inches in diameter. They are certainly busy strengthening
the batteries already constructed, and probably adding others.
It appears to me that vessels will even now, from the time they cross
the bar, be under fire from the batteries on Morris Island until they get
nnder the walls of this work. I do not speak of the batteries which have
been constructed on Sullivans Island, as I am not certain of their posi-
tions. Fort Moultrie will, of course, be a very formidable enemy.
I am, colonel, v cry respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 9, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Soon after I closed my letter* for the mail yesterday, and
while two officers were getting ready to bear a letter from Major Ander-
son demanding an explanation, an officer from Cummings Point, Major
Stevens, came with a white flag and a letter from the commanding offi-
cer, Colonel Gregg, ofi~ring an ample apology. It appears that ill prac
* Letter not found, but see BeaureHard to Walker, March 9, Confederate Corre-
spondence, & c., post
Page 193
CHAP. Ti CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 193
ticing at drill the fact of one of the guns being shotted was forgotten,
and hence the occurrence.
I commence this morning to close the openings of the loopholes on the
first tier solidly with stone. In raising the second 10-inch columbiad
from the parade to the terre-plein yesterday afternoon the strap of the
upper block broke when the gun was nearly up, and it fell, breaking the
cross-pieces of the derrick, striking the end of the casemate arch of the
first tier, and burying itself one-half its length in the ground. No one
was injured, for the first signs of giving way had been observed and
every one made to stand clear. The injury to the-derrick will be soon
repaired and the columbiad again hoisted.
Last night a severe storm of wind and rain arose, which lasted all
night, and bids fair to be renewed to-day.
The men in the batteries on Morris Island are actively at work repair-
ing damages to the parapets and in extending the field work around
on the channel side of Cummings Point and forming new batteries there.
Three or four 24-ponAders on siege carriages were landed yesterday. I
have before reported that the evident intention was to form a large field
work entirely covering the point. lts present extent will require one
thousand men to defend it, and the work still continues.
I have omitted to report previously that a guard ship; or bark, is
anchored on the main ship bar, apparently as a signal ship; also, that
the two revenue cutters taken from the Government are usually anchored
on the side of the main ship channel towards Cummings Pointone of
them northeast of the point and the other more to the north of it. They
are armed with guns or howitzers, probably of small caliber.
The storm of last night swamped one of the boats here. It was the
Fort Moultrie barge, brought over with the command.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER
Captain, Engsneers.
No. 68.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 10, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army: -
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we see only two parties,
both quite large ones, at work to-dayone at the new battery, men-
tioned yesterday, near Fort Johnson, and the other on Morris Island, at
the bend of the island, near No. 1. My command, thank God, is quite
well, and in fine spirits.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 69.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 11, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, perhaps in consequence
of the prevalence of a high and cold wind, very little work appears to
be going on around us. A few persons have been at work at the new
battery near Fort Johnson, at Fort Moultrie, and also at the battery
which fired on the Star of the West.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON, -
Major, Pirst Artillery, Commanding.
13 a
Page 194
194 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. I.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., Miarch Ii, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
GENERAL: The sudden change of temperature from the warmth of yes-
terday to the cold of last night and this morning seems to have checked
the ardor of the laborers on the field work on Cummings Point, as but
little activity is observed this morning. The work on the extension of
the line of parapet on the channel side towards; the Star of the West
battery still continues. Very little else appears to be doing. We are
still steadily at work, and will try the second 10-inch columbiad again
to-day.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
No. 70.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 12, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the pleasure of reporting that Lieutenant Snyder
has succeedQd in raising another 10-inch columbiad, which I shall place
in barbette on the left flank, upon the 8-inch columbiad platform nearest
to the gorge. We do not see that they are at work this morning, except
a small party, which is getting up some heavy timbers at the Cummings
Point wharf.
The weather is delightful now, but a few of the men are suffering
from colds.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 12, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The line of intrenchments on the channel side of Cum-
mings Point, or rather of Morris Island, is now extended down to the
rear of the Star of the West battery. This line is composed of redoubts,
connected by lines of parapet serving for curtains. The rear of the
redoubts, or the parts towards us, are raised so high as to secure them
from our reverse fire. There is one in rear of the Star of the West
battery, situated on the top of the sand hill, which conceals that battery
from our view, and two more between this and the works on Cummings
Point. Both of these are situated on sand hills, and well protected in
their rear, as described above.
The weather being unusually pleasant, their operations are activel.y
carried on this morning. Other work is being done farther down the
beach, say six hundred yards below the Star of the West battery. I
cannot make it out at present. It is probable that it is to be another
small battery to fire on the channel, and to be closed in the rear.
Jam inclined to think, from the materials that have been carried in
that direction, that the defenses at the mouth of the Stono have been
much strengthened. This river was an avenue by which and Wappoo
Creek the city could be approached by vessels drawing less than eight
feet of water. The defense of this point has, therefore, not been ne
Page 195
CHAP. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 195
lected. The idea seems to be to place their batteries all along the beach
between Cummings Point and Light-house Inlet (which is also fortified),
so that a landing must be attejupted under the fire of at least one bat-
tery. Some little work is being done on Fort Moultrie, strengthening
the merlons of the guns on the sea front.
It now appears that the rear of Fort Johnson is protected by a line
of intrenchments which comes out on the beach a little above the mortar
battery, and probably runs across to the old Martello Tower, situated
about 500 yards southeast of the wharf, near the beach.
No unusual movements are observed,, except the firing of one gun in
the city at about 14 oclock last night. A negro boy, escaping from
the city, came down last night about 11 oclock in a canoe to this fort.
He was at once sent back. The guard-ship anchored inside the main
ship bar has, I observed, housed her topmasts.
We did not get up the 10-inch columbiad yesterday for want of
time. The work of filling the openings on the gorge, first tier, with
solid stone is progressing satisfactorily.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. (1. FOSTER,
Gaptain, Engtneers.
No. 71.1 FORT SUMTER, S. C., Miarch 13, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army;
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we see only a small party
engaged this morning raising the parapet of the work usually alluded
to as the mortar battery, near Fort Johnson. Yesterday afternoon
about a hundred blank cartridges were fired from Fort Moultrie, on
what occasion we know not. This firing showed us that all the guns
are in position on that work. Oar sick-list is slightly on the increase;
five are reported sick this morning.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, 6~ommanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., ]lfarch 13, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The work upon the redoubts on the channel side of Mor-
ris Island still continues quite actively. It is confined to those described
in yesterdays letter. The pacific news by telegraph on the 11th seems.
to have created a pleasant feeling in those around us, if we may judge
by the quantity of powder that they burned yesterday. About one
hundred and fifty guns in all were fired, but not with regularity; of
this number Fort Moultrie fired about one hundred guns. The remain-
der were fired from the Maffitt Channel battery, above the Moultrie
House, and from the batteries on Morris Island.
We got up the 10-inch columbiad yesterday, and transported it to its
carriage. To-day it will be mounted at the west gorge angle. One-third
of the loophole openings on the first tier of the gorge are solidly closed
with stone, with lead run into the joints.
A third temporary building is being demolished to obtain fuel. When
the supply from this is exhausted the blacksmith shop will have to be
Page 196
196 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I,
puhle(l down, and in order to prepare for this I have moved the bellows
and apparatus into one of the second tier casemates. The weather is
very pleasant. I received the Department letter of the 8th instant.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., ]Jifarch 14, 1861.
General Jog. cT. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The news received yesterday by telegraph, to the effect
that orders were issued to evacuate this fort, seems to have caused an
almost entire cessation of work on the batteries around us. I am not
ceasing work on the preparations, although I am taking an inventory
of the materials on hand, and otherwise getting ready for such orders
should they actually arrive.
I have received my vouchers from town, together with my own private
books and papers that were in the office. All of the office furniture,
records, maps, instruments, & c., are retained by the authorities. I have
here, however, most of the most useful maps and drawings.
Unless otherwise directed I shall discharge my force when the orders
for evacuation arrive, and leave with the command, with my assistants,
and report to you at Washington.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
EXECUTIVE MANSION, iLliiareh 15, 1861.
The honorable SECRETARY OF NX AR:
M~ DEAR SIR: Assuming it to be possible to now provision Fort
Sumter, under all the circumstances is it wise to attempt it? Please
give me your opinion in writiug on this question.*
Your obedient servant,
Answer. [A. LINCOLN]
In reply to the letter of inquiry addressed to me by the President,
whether, assuming it to be possible now to provision Fort Sumter,
under all the circumstances is it wise to attempt ~ I beg leave to say
that it has received the careful consideration, in the limited time I could
bestow upon it, which its very grave importance demands, and that my
mind has beefi most reluctantly forced to the conclusion that it would be
unwise now to make such an attempt.
In coming to this conclusion I am free to say I am greatly influenced
by the opinions of the Army officers who have expressed themselves on
the subject, and who seem to concur that it is, perhaps, now impossible
to succor that fort substantially, if at all, without capturing, by means
of a large expedition of ships of war and trQops, all the opposing bat.
teries of South Carolina. All the officers within Fort Sumter, together
with Generals Scott and Totten, express this opinion, and it would seem
to me that the President would not be justified to disregard such high
authority without overruling considerations of public policy.
The following papers marked Answer and as inelosures A Ii, are filed
with the Presidents inquiry; they were probably submitted to the Cabinet March 15,
1861
Page 197
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 197
Major Anderson, in his report of the 28th ultimo, says:
I confess that I would not be willing to risk my reputation on an attempt to throw
re-enforcements into this harbor within the time for oar relief rendered necessary by
the limited supply of our provisions, and with a view of. holding possession of the
same with a force of less than twenty thousand good and well-disciplined men.
In this opinion Major Anderson is substantially sustained by the re-
ports of all the other officers within the fort, one of whom, Captain Sey-
mour, speaks thus emphatically on the subject:
It is not more than possible to supply this fort by ruse with a few men or a small
amount of provisions, such is the unceasing vigilance employed to prevent it. To do
so openly by vessels alone, nuless they are shot-proof, is virtually impossible, so nu-
merous and powerful are the opposing batteries. No vessel can lay near the fort with-
out bein~, exposed to continual fire, and the harbor conld, and probably would, when-
ever necessary, be effectually closed, as one channel has already been. A projected
attack in large force would draw to this harbor all the available resources in men and
material of the contiguous States. Batteries of guns of heavy caliber would be multi-
plied rapidly and indefluitely. At least twenty thousan men, good marksmen and
trained for months past with a view to this very contingency, would be concentrated
here before the attacking force could leave Northern ports. The harbor .would be
closed. A landing must be effected at some distance from our guns, which could give
no aid. Charleston Harbor would be a Sebastopol in such a conflict, and unlimited
means would probably be required to insure success, before which time the garrison
of Fort Sumter would be starved out.
General Scott, in his reply to the question addressed to him by the
President, on the 12th instant, what amount of means and of what de-
scription,in addition to those already at command, it would require to
supply and re-enforce the fort; says:
I should need a fleet of war vessels and transports which, in the scattered disposi-
tion of the Navy (as understood), could not be collected in less than four months;
5,000 additional regular troops and 20,000 volunteers; that is, a force sufficient to take
all the batteries, both in the harbor (including Fort Moultrie), as well as in the approach
or outer bay. To raise, organize, and discipline such an army (not to speak of necessary
le~,islation by Congress, not now in session) would require from six to eight months.
As a practical military question the time for succoring Fort Sumter with any means
at hand had passed away nearly a month ago. Since then a surrender under assault
or from starvation has been merely a questien of time.
It is true there are those, whose opinions are entitled to respectful
consideration, who entertain the belief that Fort Sumter could yet be
succored to a limited extent without the employment of the large army
and naval forces believed to be necessary by the Army officers whose
opinions I have already quoted.
Captain Ward, of the Navy, an officer of acknowledged merit, a
month ago believed it to be practicable to supply the fort with men
and provisions to a limited extent without the employment of any very
large military or naval force. He then proposed to employ four or
more small steamers belonging to the Coast Survey to accomplish the
purpose, and we have the opinion of General Scott that he has no doubt
that Captain Ward at that time would have succeeded With his pro-
posed expedition, but was lot allowed by the late President to attempt
the execution of his plan. Now it is pronounced from the change of
circumstances impracticable by Major Anderson and - all the other
officers of the fort, as well as by Generals Scott and Totten, and in this
opinion Captain Ward, after full consultation with the latter-named
officers and the Superintendent of the Coast Survey, I understand now
reluctantly concurs.
Mr. Fox, another gentleman of experience as a seaman, who, having
formerly been enga~ed on the Coast Survey, is familiar with the ~vaters
of the Charleston Harbor, has proposed to make the attempt to supply
the fort with cutters of light (Iraught and large dimensions, and his pro-
posal has in a measure been approved by Commodore Striugham, bu
Page 198
198 [CHAP. I.
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
he does not suppose or propose or profess to believe that provisions for
more than one or two months could be furnished at a time.
There is no doubt whatever in my mind that when Major Anderson
lirst took possession of Fort Sumter he could have been easily supplied
with men and provisions, and that when Captain Ward, with the con-
currence of General Scott, a mouth ago proposed his expedition he
would have succeeded had he been allowed to attempt it, as I think he
should have been. A different state of things now, however, exists.
Fort Moultrie is now rearmed and strengthened in every way; many
new land batteries have been constructed; the principal channel has
been obstructed; in short, the difficulty of re-enforcing the fort has
been increased ten if not twenty fold.
Whatever might have been (lone as late as a month ago, it is too
sadly evident that it cannot now be done without the sacrifice of life
and treasure not at all commensurate with the object to be attained;
and as the abandonment of the fort in a few weeks, sooner or later,
appears to be an inevitable necessity, it seems to me that the sooner it
be done the better.
The proposition presented by Mr. Fox, so sincerely entertained and
ably advocated, would be entitled to my favorable consideration if, with
all the light before me and in the face of so many distinguished military
authorities on the other side, I did not believe that the attempt to carry
it into effect would initiate a bloody and protracted conflict. Should
he succeed in relieving Fort Sumter, whiuli is doubted by many of our
most experienced soldiers and seamen, would that enable us to main-
tain our authority against the troops and fortifications of South Carolina l
Sumter could not now contend against these formidable adversaries if
filled with provisions and men. That fortress was intended, as her
position on the map will show, rather to repel an invading foe. It is
equally clear from repeated investigations and trials that the range
of her grins is too limited to reach the city of Charleston, if that were
desirable.
No practical benefit will result to the country or the Government by
accepting the proposal alluded to,and Jam therefore of opinion that
the cause of humanity and the highest obligation to the public interest
would be best promoted by adopting- the counsels of those brave and
experienced men whose suggestions I have laid before you.
[Indorsement.]
There was a signed copy of the within placed in the hands of Presi-
dent Lincoln.
SIMON CAMERON.
MARCH 17, 1875.
[Inelosure A.]
MEMORANDUM OF DIFFERENT PLANS FOR RE-ENFORCING FORT SUMTER.
Memoranda read before the President and Cabinet, General Scott and Com-
modore Stringhain, and Mr. Fox, late ~f the Navy, Washington, March
15, 1861, by Bvt. Brig. Gen. Joseph U. Totten, Chief of Engineers.*
The obstacles to the relief of Fort Sumter are natural or artificial ob-
stacles to navigation, and military opposition.
The main channel in its best natural state would not admit the pas-
See also General Totten to Secretary of War, April 3, 1861, post
Page 199
ChAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 199
sage of vessels larger than sloops of war; so that, before it was obstructed,
a naval attack, to be very formidable, must have consisted of many ves-
sels of this kind.
In designing the defenses of Charleston Harbor, therefore, it was
considered that Fort Sumter, with Castle Pinckney, would suffice, with
some improvement of Fort Moultrie, and the erection of batteries iu
time of war on James Island at the position called Fort Johnson. A
deeper entrance would have demanded a strou~er system.
The South Carolina troops have strengthened Fort Moultrie and
added batteries thereto; they possess Castle Piuckney; they have erected
batteries at Fort Johnson, and, not having Fort Sumter, they have
planted a number of guns (number not known) on Morris Island.
These last do not, certainly, bring their system up to that which in-
cluded Fort Sumter; but they, as is represented, have also so blocked
the main channel, or made its navigation so intricate, that only vessels
light in draught can entervessels unavoidably weak to resist and im-
potent to assail.
If we suppose a squadron of war vessels as large as can be forced
through the impediments of the main bar to have overcome that difficulty,
and, under pressure of steam, to advance in daylight (as I think would
be indispensable), they would suffer greatly from the fire of Morris
Island, Fort Moultrie, afld its adjacent batteriesbut they would suffer
much less than the small vessels, because much stronger and with vital
parts better secured, and because their own fire would, to a certain ex-
tent, keep under, and, to a great degree, render uncertain the fire of the
batteries. But whether larg& r or smaller, the vessels have not merely
to pass the fire of the batteriesthey must remain exposed to it. Be-
cause, before getting beyond the fire of Fort Moultrie, they come within
scope of Fort John on, and while yet under the guns of these batteries
they will be reached by Castle Pinckney. There is no point of shelter
within these waters; and although the squadron of heavy sloops might
survive the dangers of the passage, they could not long endure the can-
nonade that would be concentrated on any anchorage. In these very
waters, this problem was settled in the Revolutionary War by the con-
test between the squadron of Sir Peter Parker and the single work of
Fort Moultriethen certainly not more powerful than now.
To enable the supposed squadron to remain, it is indispensable that a
military force should capture the batteries from the laud, and be strong
enough, besides, to hold possession against the troops now assembled
in and around them, and those that would rapidly come from the interior.
Should small vessels attempt this entrance by daylight, their destruc-
tion would be inevitable; at any rate, the chaices of getting through
would ~e too slender to justify any such enterprise. We have certain
information that there is much practice with these guns, and that the
practice now is good. If this risk were to be run by daylight, the ves-
sels might have a draught of about eight feet, and could use the Swash
~ or a passage between this and the main channel, or, finally,
the latter. But I must repeat that unless we were to find a degree of
inaptness and imbecility, and a want of vigilance and courage that we
have no right to assume, this attempt by daylight with small vessels,
even of great speed, must fail.
There remains another project, namely, to enter at night by the
Swash Channel with a few (two or three) fast steam-tugs, having a
draught of only (or about) five feet. To do this it will be necessary
to take position before dark off this channel, so as to get upon the
proper leading line to be followed after dark by the ascertained course
Page 200
200 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
or, possibly, by the bearing of the lights of Fort Sumter. With proper
precautions in screening the lights and fires of the boats, & c., I think
the risk would not be so great, considering only the batteries, as to deter
from this attempt, provided the object were of very great importance.
I should expect one or two, perhaps all, of these vessels to reach Fort
Sumter, and the shoal upon which they must be groundedprovided
no other impediments awaited them.
But, in the first place, it is a necessary condition that the boats arrive
off the harbor before night. If they can see to take these bearings, they
can be seen from the shore. In the next place, it seems impossible to fit
out any expedition, however small and unobtrusive, without arousing
inquiry, and causing the intelligence to be transmitted by telegraph.
We may be certain, therefore, that these tugs will be waited for by
steamers lying in the channelway, full of men.
This mode of relieving Fort Sumter, or another by men in rowboats
passing up the same channel,is so obvious that it is unreasonable to
suppose it has not been duly considered and provided for, where so
much intelligence and resource in military means have been displayed
in the scheme of defense, and so much earnestness and energy in execu-
tion. We know that guard rowboats and steamers are active during
the night; and that they have all the means of intercepting with cer-
tainty this little expedition, and overpowering it, by boardinga com-
mencement of war.
This attempt, like any other, will inevitably involve a collision.
This raises a question that I am not called on to discuss, but as to
which I may say that if the General Government adopts a course that
must be attended with this result, its first measure should not be one so
likely to meet disaster and defeat; nor one, I may add, which, even if
successful, would give but momentary relief, while it would open all the
powers of attack upon the fort, certainly reducing it before the means
of recovering Charleston Harbor, with all its forts and batteries and
environs, can possibly be concentrated there.
Respectfully submitted.
J. G. T.
[Inclosure B.l
General Scott~s memoranda for the Secretary of l7Yar.
It seems from the opinions of the Army officers who have expressed
themselves on the subjectall within Fort Sumter, together with Gen-
erals Scott and ~I?otten---that it is perhaps now impossible to succor
that fort substantially, if at all, without capturing, by means of a large
expedition of ships of war and troops, all the opposing batteries of
South Carolina. In the mean timesix or ten monthsMajor Anderson
would almost certainly have been obliged to surrender under assault
or the approach of starvation; for even if an expedition like that pro-
posed by G. V. Fox should succeed once in throwing in the succor of
a few men and a few weeks provisions, the necessity of repeating the
latter supply would return again and again, including the yellow-fever
season. An abandonment of the fort in a few weeks, sooner or later,
would appear, therefore, to be a sure necessity, and if so, the sooner
the more graceful on the part of the Goverurneut.
It is doubtful, however, according to recent information from the
South, whether the voluntary evacuation of Fort Sumter alone would
have a decisive effect upon the States now wavering between adher-
ence to the Union and secession. It is known, indeed, that it would b
Page 201
C~IAr. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 201
charged to necessity, and the holding of Fort Pickens would be adduced
in support of that view. Our Southern friends, however, ar~ clear that
the evacuation of both the forts would instantly soothe and give con-
fidence to the eight remaining slaveholding States, and render their
cordial adherence to this Union perpetual.
The holding of Forts Jefferson and Taylor, on the ocean keys, depends
on entirely different principles, and should never be abandoned; and,
indeed, the giving up of Forts Sumter and Pickens may be best justified
by the hope that we should thereby recover the State to which they
geographically belong by the liberality of the act, besides retaining the
eight doubtful States.
[Inclosure C.]
Lieutenant Halls note.~.
I have the honor to state that I could not concur with Captain Rod-
gers, with whom I was directed to confer, in his plan for the entrance
of the harbor of Charleston with men and provisions for Fort Sumter.
He proposes to procure a vessel (steamboat), with a draught of not over
six and one-half feet, in so me Northern port, and with the cargo to be
cleared for Charleston, letting it be known, as if in confidence, that the
design is to force a landing on the southern extreme of Morris Island;
to carry the batteries by the rear and destroy the channel; to bring in
the vessel, the vessel to regulate her speed so as to arrive off the bar
in a dark night and at high tide, and to proceed through the Swash
Channel with her lights extinguished; in case of discovery and being
fired at, to drop a cork with a light in it, which would deceive the gun-
ners. If the batteries are lighted up the men cannot see in the distance;
if they are not, the lights will not be visible. The commander is to be
allowed to back his vessel in case of a storm on the way down.
My objections to this l)lan are very numerous. In the first place, the
deception would be apparent, as no one would attempt a forced lauding
with means possible to such a vessel. Secondly, not being a sea-going
vessel the danger to life and the success of the undertaking is so great
as to appear imprudent at best. Thirdly, it is unsafe to calculate upon
not being seen off the bar, as a number of watch vessels, some with
troops and cannon, are stationed off and along the entrance. Fourthly,
even thongh the above dangers should all be safely passed and it should
prove a moojiless night and high tide at a proper time, still a chance
shot through the machinery would defeat the enterprise.
The plan is grounded upon the most fortunate and improbable cir-
cumstances. it might succeed; but I think failure would be the rule.
By an examination of the chart of th~ harbor of Charleston it will be
seen that the Swash Channel passes outside the range of all the batteries
erected along the entrance, except, perhaps, the small one near Cum-
mings Point (of one 32-pounder and one 12-pounder), and this can be
safely neglected. Fort Moultrie can bring several guns to bear for a mile
and a half (not ten minutes), but their field has been greatly reduced by
the traverse with small embrasures lately thrown up on the parapet.
Considering as effective all the means in the hands of those hostile to
the undertakings, the following are at present to be noticed: The chan-
nel will not admit of niore than six and one-half feet draught with ease in
sailing; at least one steamer with troops and field guns will be near
the bar; a line of pilot schooners and signal vessels form a cordon out-
side the bar; the main ship channel is obstructed with sunken ships;
Maffltts Channel is raked and crossed by the fires of Mo~Atrie and batter
Page 202
202 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I
ies placed along Sullivans Island; the buoys and range lights are
removed; the anchorage, except a small area, is nnder the fire of guns
from the several fortified points; the Swash Channel is readily followed
by ranging Fort Sumter on St. Michaels till within five hundred yards
of the fort, where a detour to the right will be necessary. Carefully
navigated, passing very near the north side of the fort, the vessel may
be brought to the wharf at high tide. If not successful, small boats may
be furnished by the fort. The only effective guns are tliose of Fort
Moultrie on this entrance. I have the honor to propose that a war ves-
sel (the Brooklyn best) be dispatched with two schooners and two ordi-
nary steam-tugs, each of not more than six feet and a half draught, and
under the same pretension as that first proposed, and this combination
will give color to the rumor. One of the schooners is to be loaded with
provisions entirely, and the hay is to be stored on the starboard. The
other, with some provisions, is to carry the troops. The vessels arrived
off the bar, the Brooklyn can keep all hostile vessels at a distance and
make the following arrangement:
The vessel with provisions is to be placed upon the right, next a screw-
tug, next the vessel with troops, and again a tug. The right-hand ves-
sel will cover those on the left, protecting from fire the troops and means
of locomotion. The vessels should arrive off the bar two hours before
high tide, so that the tide will be rising all the way in, and if grounded
may be floated off in a short time. To prevent vessels from the city and
the cutters inside the harbor from interfering, the fort shall be signaled,
and will reply by lowering its flag or showing a light, and will prevent
any vessel going out. Signals should be agreed upon, and the time,
day or night, also. Two field pieces, loaded with canister, might be
used to meet a desperate attempt to board the vessels. The hay in bales
should be wet, to prevent heated balls from setting fire to the vessels.
[Inelosure Th]
Opinions of various officers.
George W. Snyder, lieutenant of Engineers, February 28, 1801: 4 regi-
ments, or 4,000 men; 4 vessels of war.
Ill. K. Meade, Jr., second lieutenant of Engineers, February 28, 1861:
5,000 men, at least; supported by gunboats.
S. W. Crawford, February 28, 1861: 4,000 men, supported by the Navy.
Norman J. Hall, second lieutenant, First Artillery, February 28, 1861:
3,500 men; 7 *ar vessels.
J. C. Davis, first lieutenant, First Artillery, February 28, 1861: 3,000
men; 6 war vessels.
Theodore Talbot, first lieutenant, First Artillery, February 28, 1861:
3,000 men and naval vessels.
T. Seymour, brevet captain and lieutenant, First Artillery, February
28, 1861.~
A. Doubleday, captain, First Artillery, February 28, 1861: 10,000
men and Navy.
J. C-. Foster, captain of Engineers, February 28,18~1: 6,000 regulars
or 20,000 volunteers to take them; 10,000 regulars or 30,000 volunteers
to hold them.
Captain Ward, who came here believing it practicable, abandoned it
after consultation with General Scott. General Scott and the Chief of
the Coast Survey, Mr. Foster, evidently a man of sound sense and ex-
perience as a seaman, who is acquainted with the waters, having formerly
*Seep 197
Page 203
ChAP. Ii CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 203
been attached to the Coast Survey, proposed to make the attempt with
cutters of light draught and large dimensions. He ~Vas in a measure
sustained by Qommodore Stringham, but did not suppose provisions for
more than one or two months could be furnished at a time.
[Inclosure E.]
illiemorandum of Capt. G. V. Fox.
WASHINGTON, D. C., February 8, 1861.
Lieut. Gen. WINFIELD ScOTT, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The proposition which I had the honor to submit fully in
person is herewith presented in writing. Lieutenant Hall and myself
have had several free conferences, and if he is permitted by the South
Carolina authorities to re-enter Fort Sumter, Ma Andersoii will com-
prehend the plan for his relief. I consider myself very fortunate in hav-
ing proposed a project which meets the approval of the General-in-Chief,
and I ask no reward but the entire conduct of the part, exclusive of the
armed vessels. The commander of these should be ordered to co-oper-
ate with me, by affording protection and destroying their naval prepara-
tions near the bar, leaving to me, as the author of the plan, the actual
operations of relief. I suggest that the Pawnee be immediately sent to
the Delaware Breakwater to await orders ; the Harriet Lane to be ready
for sea, and some arrangement entered into by which the requisite
steamer and tugs should be engaged, at least so far as not to excite sus-
picion. I would prefer one of the Collins steamers~ They are now being
prepared for sea, and are of such a size and power as to be able fear-
lessly to run down any vessels which might attempt to capture us out-
side by a coup de main. I could quietly engage one and have her ready
to start in twenty-four hours notice, without exciting suspicion. I
shall leave for New York at 3.10 p. in., and any communication previous
will find me at Judge Blairs. If the Pawnee pivot-gun is landed it
should certainly be remounted.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
G. V. FOX.
[Inclosure F.]
ST. GERMAIN HOTEL, NEW YORK, February 6,1861.
Since the repulse of the steamer Star of the West at Charleston it
may be assumed that all the channels over the bar are obstructed, but
as the bar is more than four miles in length the spaces between these
channels are too extensive to be closed; therefore at high~water and
smooth sea the harbor is perfectly accessible to vessels drawing, say,
seven feet of water. The United States have no steamers of this draught.
The skillful officers at Charleston, aware of this fact, will conclude that
relief must go in at high water in boats or light-draught steamers, inca-
pable of bearing a very offensive armament. They will be perfectly pre-
pared for such attempts by arming and heavily manning all the steamers
they possess, ant at the critical moment will throw themselves alongside
of the relief vessels, and thus jeopardize the movement by the very de-
tention of the conflict. To elude their vigilance or attempt a stratagem,
however ingenious, I consider too liable to failure. I propose to put the
troops on board of a large, comfortable sea steamer, and hire two power-
ful light-draught New York tug-boats, having the necessary stores on
board; these to be convoyed by the U. S. steamer Pawnee, now at Phil-
adelphia, and the revenue cutter Harriet Lane. (The Pawnee is th
Page 204
204 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
only available steam vessel of war north of the Gulf of Mexico, draws
twelve feet of water, and has seven heavy guns. As a steamer, she
seems to be a failure, but may be got ready for this emergency; at least
she is, unfortunately, our only resource.) The Harriet Lane I under-
starnitto be an excellent and efficient vessel; but either of these steamers
alone may be liable to capture by an overwhelming force.
Arriving off the bar I propose to examiue by day the naval prepara.
tions and obstructions. If their vessels determine to oppose our entrance
(and a feint or flag of truce would ascertain this) the armed ships must
approach the bar and destroy or drive them on shore. Major Anderson
would do the same upon any vessels within the range of his guns, and
would also prevent any naval succor being sent down from the city.
Having dispersed this force the only obstacles are the forts on Cummings
Point and Fort Moultrie, aftd whatever adjacent batteries they may have
erected distant on either hand from midchannel about three-quarters of
a mile. At night, two hours before high water, with half the force on
board of each tug within relieving distance of each other, I should run
in to Fort Sumter.
[Inclosure G.]
NEW YORK, February 23, 1861.
Mv DEAR BLAIR: Mr. Blunt received a telegraph from General Scott
a few days since which he thought indicated an adjournment of my plan;
but I put the construction upon it that another was substituted for mine,
and I feel certain it must be boats. To corroborate this the New York
Times, of February 21, says: Government has determined to relieve
Fort Sumter by boats at night. I consider this plan possible, and the
alternative of mine, but inferior at every step. The distance from Fort
Sumter to outside is five milesan hours pull. From this point the
open ocean, winter season, and at night, say two hundred men (requiring
for six months five hundred and forty-six barrels of provisions) are to be
put into boats, rowed over a very dangerous bar, and subjected for half
an hour to a fire of grape from sixty guns. Besides, if a single tug (they
have four) eludes Major Andersons vigilance, she would run in amongst
these boats with perfect impunity to herself and utter destruction to
them. I have made two cruises on the coast of Africa, where the pass-
ing of bars by boats, unless very light and in broad daylight, was con-
sidered the most dangerous duty we were subjected to, fatal accidents
being common in the smoothest weather. Moreover, this plan has been
spoken of pnblicly in connection with the U. S. ship Brooklyn, and
from this fact is probably made a special study by the Charlestonians.
I simply propose three tugs, convoyed by light-draught men-ofwar.
These tngsare sea-boats, six feet draught, speed fourteen knots. The
boilers are below, with three and a half feet space on each side, to be
filled with coal. The machinery comes up between the wheel-houses,
with a gangway on either hand of five to six feet, enabling us to pack
the machinery with two or three thicknesses of bales of cotton or hay.
This renders the vulnerable parts of the steamer pro~f against grape
and fragments of shells, but the momentum of a solid shot would prob-
ably move the whole mass and disable the engine. The men are below,
entirely protected from grapeprovisions - on deck. The first tug to
lead in empty, to open their fire. The other two to follow, with the
force divided, and towing the large iron boats of the Baltic, which
would hold the whole force should every tug be disabled, and empty
they would not impede the tugs. When such men as George W. Blunt
Page 205
CHAP. Ii CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 205
Charles K. Marshall, and Russell Sturgis, all seamen, give my plan the
preference, it must have merit. At Kinburn, in the Black Sea, eight
gunboats passed in the night forts mounting eighty gunsonly one
boat hit. The next day, in broad daylight, the Cracker (English)
came out under their deliberate firedistance nine hundred yards. The
Yladimar (Russian steamer at Sebastopol) was under fire at various
distances during the whole war, but her motion prevented her being
disabled. How few of Dahigrens shots hit the target with all the ele-
ments of success he is capable of producing! I am sure I could convince
the authorities of the preference that is due to this plan, if I could argue
the plan instead of write it.
Sincerely yours,
G. V. FOX.
[Inclosure H.]
DEAR BLAIR: NEW YORK, March 1, 1861.
I just met Russell Sturgis, who has charge of most of the tow-boats
in the harbor, and he informs me that the Charleston authorities have
opened negotiations here for the purchase of two tugs, and that the two
proposed are two of the three I had selected, being the only three really
fit for the work in the whole city. I thought it best to give you this
information at once, as the probability of re-enforcing Fort Sumter
except by landing and capturing their forts will be lessened with such
fine boats as 1 have described in their possession. Captain Sturgis has
put these boats in order, notwithstanding my plan has the go-by, for
we all feel that a severe discussion must bring it up again.
I met a Navy officer to-day who has just received a letter from Hart-
stene. He is captain in the S. C. Navy with the same pay as a U. S.
captain, and has charge of the coast defenses. He thinks he has pre-
vented an attack upon Sumter so far, but sa-ys it will soon be done, and
will be a very sanguinary affair. Paul Hamilton, esq., commands the
floating battery now launched. They have four tugs, which do not
amount to much compared to one of these powerful New York ones.
* * * * * * *
I wrote you last Sunday in full. Write me as soon as anything defi-
nite is done.
Yours,
G. V. FOX.
Direct your letters care of A. H. Lowery, 77 Nassau street, and I get
them in the morning, otherwise not until p. m. I trust you and the
General will give me a hand in this business. He seems most favorably
disposed towards me.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 15, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. ~Y.:
GENERAL: I have nothing to report respecting the operations of the
South Carolinians around us. Their works seem to be at a standstill,
and most of the men, both military and laboring, are withdrawn from
them. I noticed last evening that one gun was fired from the iron-clad
floating batteryin town, thus indicating that its armament has been
placed on board. A storm of wind is prevailing.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineer8
Page 206
206 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
FORT SUMTER, S. C., llfarch 16, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.;
GENERAL: Considerable activity is exhibited this morning in the
batteries on Morris Island and in the vicinity of the mortar battery on
James Jslan(1. Three steamers have landed on Cummings Point quite
a large number of men, both laboring and military, with three barbette
carriages and four guns, either 24 or 32 pounders, and quite a large
quantity of supplies. The operations, however, which are not fully
defined at this time, appear to be directed to the continuation of the
works of defense on the channel side, and also to the further strength-
ening of the works as far down the beach as the light-house and mouth
of the Stono River. On James Island the work is confined to the con-
struction of about one hundred and fifty yards of covered way on the
beach, connecting the mortar battery and the flank of the line of in-
trenchments in rear of Fort Johnson, where it comes out on the beach.
I am still engaged in filling up the exterior openings of the first-tier
loopholes on the gorge. One-half of the gorge is thus strengthened. I
have pnt the two 10-inch columbiads in good working order. The open-
ing through the masonry wall in rear of the main gate has also been
lined with iron plate in such a way that the main gate may not be shaken
when the 8-inch howitzer in rear is fired through the opening. I am
also clearing the parade of rubbish.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
No. 74.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., ]liliareh 16, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that after an apparent partial
suspension for two or three days of work around us, they have resumed
with a good deal of activity. Quite a large party is now at work iiear
Fort Johnson, at the point designated Apparently a covered way on
the accompanying sketch by Captain SeymourA~ Four barbette car-
riages and guns were landed yesterday afternoon at Cummings Point,
and we see this morning that they are removing the armaheut from the
parapet of Castle Pinckney. Thence, probably, came the barbette guns
and carriages we have seen landed at different times at Cummings Point.
The works on Morris Island will, I presume, be found to be very heavily
and well armed.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 17, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The unusual activity observed and reported yesterday
morning in the surrounding batteries was due to preparations for re-
ceiving some distinguished person who visited them in the afternoon.
* Here omitted. To appear in Atlas
Page 207
CuAr. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 207
It is supposed that this was Yice-President Stephens, of the so-called
Southern Confederacy. Three rounds were fired from all the batteries
on Morris Island, except No. 1, apparently as much for practice as for
saluting, for most of the guns not pointed in this direction were shotted.
This firing enabled me to detect the positions and approximate calibers
of the guns in these batteries.
The marginal sketch represents this roughly:
1~
No. 1. Battery of sand and palmetto logs, four 24-pounders.
No. 2. Iron-clad battery, three guns, 42-pounders or 8-inch columbiads.
No. 3. Battery of sand and palmetto logs, three guns, 24-pounders or
32-pounders.
No. 4. Battery of sand and palmetto logs, with one 8-inch columbiad
or 8-inch sea-coast howitzer.
No. 5. Star of the West battery, five guns, 24-pounders or 32-pounders.
a is a large magazine; b, C) d are defenses of the character of redoubts
on top of three sand hills.
There were two guns at each round fired from the light-house battery.
Three or four more guns were landed yesterday with barbette carri-
ages, and most of them (in fact, all that are removed from the landing
which is iu front of battery No. 1, where there is deep water close in
shore) were carried around upon the channel side. One, at least, was
placed in battery No. 4, making four guns in that battery at present.
These guns with barbette carriages came from Castle Piuckney, nearly
the whole of the upper tier of which is being removed for this purpose.
None of the guns from Fort Moultrie bearing upon this fort or the chan-
nel have been removed. No work is being done on the batteries look-
ing towards us. All preparations are directed to strengthening the
channel batteries very much, and to covering the present batteries in
the rear, which was before open.
No work of any magnitude is being done on Cummings Point to-day
(Sunday). On James Island the work on the covered way connecting
the flank of the line of intrei~ichments and the mortar battery is being
continued.
The weather is pleasant, although there are indications of a storm
brewing. -
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineer8
Page 208
208 OPERATI6NS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [Cm4r. T.
No. 76.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., ]Jfarch 18, 1861.
(Received A. 0-. 0., March 20.)
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. ~. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that they removed at 11 oclock
last night the middle ship-channel buoy No. 3. We do not observe any
parties at work this morning, except a very small one near the bomb-
proof battery on Cummings Point. On Saturday afternoon several gufis
were fired on Morris Island. We were thereby enabled to count and
mark the positions of twenty-three guns. The mortar batteries did not
fire.
Our men are all in good spirits, and although the weather is unfavor-
able to-day, our sick-list is not increasing.
1 am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Miajor, First Artillery, Commanding
FORT SUMTER, S. C., llliareh 18, 1861.
General J. C-. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. U.:
GENERAL: Being Monday morning, the working parties have not at
this time been brought down from town, consequently very little appears
to be doing on Morris Island. During yesterday and last night some
more guns and barbette carriages were landed on Cummir~gs Point, the
exact number of which I could not ascertain. Seven barbette-top car-
riages are now lying on the beach. These, as I have reported, have
been removed from Castle Pinckn~y, and the city papers state that
twenty had been ordered to be thus removed by General Beauregard.
A small party of laborers is still at work on the covered way con-
necting the mortar battery on James Island with the left flank of the
line of intrenchments in rear of Fort Johnson.
The weather is misty, with indications of a storm.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. 0-. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
P. S.The channel buoy, about half a mile east of this fort (shown on
Cost Survey map), was removed last night.
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
WAR DEPARTMENT, ]Jlareh 19, 1861.
Lent. Gen. WINFIELD SCOTT:
DEAR SiR: The President requires accurate information in regard to
the command of Major Anderson in Fort Sumter, and wishes a compe-
tent person sent for that purpose. You will therefore direct some suit-
able person to proceed there immediately, and report the result of the
information obtained by him.
I am, sir, very respectfully,
SIMON CAMERON.
Secretary of War
Page 209
ChAr. I.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
209
(Indorsements.]
The within may do good and can do no harm. It commits no one.
WINFIELD SCOTT.
The order of which this is a copy was presented to the President March
19, 1861.
G. V. Fox, formerly of the Navy, was selected by General Scott as the
messenger, and approved by the President.
S. C.
No. 77.] FORT SuMTER, S. C., March 19, 1861.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that all is still, within the range
of our observation. The snow squall we had this morning, and the con-
sequent coldness of the air, would have a tendency to check their opera-
tions. We are, thank God, doing very well. The paymaster is now
paying off this command.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Gommanding.
No. 78.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 20, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., March 23.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that last night they were un-
nsnally vigilant watching the entrance to this harbor. This morning
we see them mounting a gun in battery No. 1, apparently clearing
ground for platforms for a new battery on the sea shore, behind No. 2,
and strengthening the covered way on the left of the iron battery. We
see framework, perhaps for a large shed, to the right of the iron battery.
They are evidently apprehensive that an attempt may be made to throw
re-enforcements into this work.
1 am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 20, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The operations on Morris Island are still solely confined
to strengthening the channel batteries and to creating successive points
of defense to a land attack coming up the beach, as small redonbts on
top of sand hills, intrenched houses, & c. All operations looking to an
attack on this fort have ceased. The throats of the embrasures of
battery No. 3 (see letter of the 17th) have been closed with sand bags,
and the guns may be removed to the channel side, although I doubt it,
from the fact that we have seen them land seven guns with carriages
from Castle Pinckney. They are now engaged iu mounting additional
guns in battery No.4.
All the batteries bearing on the channel are being increased in
14 R
Page 210
210 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
strength, and probably new batteries out of sight are being constructed,
for the large working party constantly employed on the point np to this
time is now nowhere to be seen. The guns are being mounted by their
soldiers. A few hands are at work on the covered way near the mortar
battery on James Island.
Very little was done here yesterday, on account of the weather. It
is, however, quite pleasant to-day. I have nearly finished filling up
the openings of the first tier of loopholes on the gorge. In case the
order arrives to evacuate this fort, is it the wish of the Department that
I shall remove all the Engineer material that I can ~
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
P. 5.I feel sure that I have sufficient funds to pay all dues up to the
1st of April, but lest some unforeseen circumstance should arise which
would make it necessary to have more money, I would respectfully ask
that Lieutenant Gilimore be instructed to honor my checks on the
assistant treasurer (in case I am forced to overdraw), say to one thou-
sand dollars.
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
No. 79.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 21, 1861.
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. kS~. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that a quantity of iron was un-
loaded about 11 oclock last night from a steamboat at Cummings Point.
We see the work mentioned yesterday is being prosecuted this morning.
Nothing else has occurred attracting attention since my last letter,
except the firing yesterday afternoon of some two hundred blank car-
tridges from the Fort Moultrie battery.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 21, 1861.
General Jos. 0-. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The work on the channel batteries on Morris Island still
continues. A large quantity of material, lumber, and apparently rail-
road iron was landed last night on the beach at Cummings Point.
Quite a large number of troops are kept here and also on Sullivans
Island.
A liberal expenditure of powder was made yesterday at Fort Moul-
trio in firing blalik cartridges, apparently to accustom the men to rapid
firing. All the guns on the channel front and the front in this direc-
tion were fired several times in rapid succession, making over two
hundred guns in all. The work on the covered way leading to the
mortar battery on James Island is still slowly continued. There does
not appear to be much work on the intrencliments themselves going
forward, probably in consequence of the high wind that is prevailing.
More, however, is being done in mounting guns.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineer8
Page 211
CIIAP.LJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.1JNION.
211
No. 80.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 22, 1861.
(Received A. 0-. 0., March 25.)
Col. L. TIIOMA~, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that a few men are working
this morning at the large battery near Fort Johnson and also on Cum-
mings Point behind battery No. 2.
I have examined the point alluded to by Mr. Fox last night. A ves-
sel lying there will be under the lire of thirteen guns from Fort Moultrie,
and Captain Foster says that at the pan-coupe, or immediately on its
rightthe best place for her to landshe would require, even at high
tide, if drawing ten feet, a staging of forty feet.
The Department can decide what the chances will be of a safe de-
barkation and unloading at that point under these circumstances.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March, 21, 1861.
Maj. B. ANDERSON, First Artillery, Commanding:
MAJOR: I have examined the commissary supplies on hand, and
find them to be in kind and amount as follows, viz:
Six barrels of flour; six barrels of hard bread; three barrels of sugar;
one barrel of coffee; two barrels of vinegar; twenty-six barrels of pork;
one-fourth barrel of salt; one and a half barrels of rice; three boxes of
candles.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
NORMAN J. HALL,
Second Lieutenant, First Artillery, A. A. fJY. 5.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 22, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Everything appears to be quiet this morning in the bat-
teries around ns~ Night before last the South Carolinians put down
again the buoy that had been taken up a few nights before from its
position, about half a mile to the east of this fort. It appears, how-
ever, that it was not replaced in the former position, but placed upon
the opposite side of the channel.
Last night a special messenger, Mr. Fox, arrived from Washington,
and canie down to the fort under the escort of Captain llartstene, for-
merly of the United States Navy. After a confidential interview with
Major Anderson, he left immediately for Washington.
With respect to this fort, I have filled all the loophole openings on
the first tier with solid stone. All the openings are now closed, with
the exception of five near the ends of the gorge, which had been par-
tially filled with a 9-inch brick wall. I am now completing the filling
of these with lead concrete.
I am also building traverses in front of the hospital, which is on the
first floor of the quarters, and in front of the ordnance stoi~erooin, to
shield them from shells from Fort Moultrie.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. 0-. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers
Page 212
212 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, iJfarch 23, 1861.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER,
Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of the
17th, 18th, and 19th instants. For these and the previously received
diurnal reports, the results of your vigilant observations and evidences
of your devotion to your duties and loyalty to the Government, be pleased
to accept the thanks of this Department.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. 0. TOTTEN,
Brevet Brigadier. General, and Colonel of Engineers.
No. 81.] FoRT SUMTER, S C March 23 1801
.,
(Received A. G. 0., March 27.)
Col. L. THOMAS,
Adjutant- General lIT. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we see them at work at
the large battery near Fort Johnson, behind which they appear to be
constructing something with heavy timbers, and at battery No. 1, on
Morris Island, which they are extending. At the last firing from this
battery both shot and shell were thrown., They are also at work on a
new battery, not far from the Moultrie House, on Sullivans Island.
This makes, as far as we can judge, four batteries between the fort and
the east end of the island. As we are very deficient in ammunition, I
have directed the quartermaster to turn over to the Ordnance Depart-
ment a quantity of flannel shirts, from which I shall have cartridge
bags made.
Our sick.list is the same as when last mentioned. They practice
daily, firing shot and shell in the direction of the junction of the Swash
and Main Channels. Their practice is pretty good. They are firing
now from heavy mortars in rear of the iron-plated battery on Cum.
mings Point. I have no ammunition to spare, and, therefore, do not
show them our proficiency in artillery practice.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 82.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 24, 1861.
Col. L. THOMAS,
Adjutant-General U. AS. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I do not see them working
anywhere this (Sunday) morning, except at the large battery at Fort John.
son. I omitted mentioning that buoy No. 3 has been put down again,
but, I think, not exactly in the place it formerly occupied. Everything
was quiet and still last night. Our sick-report has only four to-day.
J am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding
Page 213
CHM~. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~--UNION. 213
No. 83.] FoRT SUMTER, S. C., March 25, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., March 28.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. iS A.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that everything is quiet around
us, and that we do not see any work being prosecuted except that at
the new battery at Fort Johnson. They are practicing this morning
with shells from the columbiads at Fort Moultrie and from a mortar
battery between Kos. 9 and 10.
I inclose herewith a report of the condition of our fort. It will be
seen that a great deal of work has been done since we came in. We are
now about finishing the closing of the openings in the gorgea measure
first suggested by Captain Doubleday.
I have not noted the different operations we have been engaged in
from time to time, as I did not deem them of sufficient importance to re-
quire it.
II. am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
(Inclosure.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 24, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON, First Artillery, Commanding:
SIR: In accordance with verbal instructions given by you, we have
the honor to submit the following report npon the condition of Fort
Sumter when occupied December 26, 1860, the measures taken to put
it in a state of defense, and its present condition:
Condition of the work December 26, 1860.
The barbette tier was ready for its armament: Three 24-pounders
were mounted at the left and three more were ready to be mounted at
the right gorge angle.
NOMENCLATUREe
SALIENT
LEFT FACE GIGHT FACE
LEFT SHOULUER ANGLE I~IGHT 5HOULDEI~. ANGLE
LEFT FLAN& ( RIGHT FLANK
~XFTGORG ANGLE GORGE RIGHT GORGEANGLE
ESPLANADE
ViHARF
The second tier of arches was not ready for its guns. The embrasures
were not yet placed, and forty-one openings, eight feet square, were left
in the scarp wall for this purpose. Those on the flanks (20) were closed
only with a sheathing of 1-inch boards; the remainder, on thefaces (21),
were either entirely open or closed with three courses of brick dry-laid
Page 214
214 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
or, as on the left face, with two courses laid in mortar; some few were
only half closed. One 32-pounder was mounted, for experimental pur-
poses, on the right flank.
First tier.Eleven 32-ponnders were mounted on the left face. Guns
could be mounted thronghout. The forty-one embrasures were closed
with the ordinary 6-inch wooden shutters, secured with a wooden brace
and rope lashing. Two small posterns in the gorge angles were closed,
each with two doors, the outer hooked, the inner barred. The soldiers
quarters were unfinished, and as those portions that were tenable were
occupied by workmen, the transferred garrisou was placed in the officers
quarters, which were completed.
The parade was crowded with temporary wooden buildings (6), used
as shops and storehouses, with a large amount of flagging, lumber, sand,
shell, and brick, and with the ordnance, consisting of sixty-six guns
with their carriages and 5,600 shot and shell. The communications
throngh these incumbrances were very difficult.
The main postern was closed by two dates, each of two 4-inch leaves,
secured with wooden cross-bars -
and insecure. , they were loopholed and were weak
On the gorge seven loopholed doors were closed with 5-inch wooden shut-
ters; twelve magazine ventilators with wooden shutters at the throat;
fifty-one loopholed windows were not closed. The esplanade and wharf
were much incumbe~ed with flagging, sand, and brick, and by two appa-
ratuses, twelve feet high and attached to the scarp wall, for hoisting boats.
The garrison transferred from Fort IMloultrie consisted of seven officers,
seventy-six enlisted men, and forty-five women and children. There
were three officers, one enlisted man, two hundred and five laborers, and
one woman at Fort Sumter. One hundred and fifty of the laborers were
discharged within a few days, and the women and children were shipped
to New York early in February, 1861, leaving at this date a garrison con-
sisting of ten officers, seventy-five enlisted men, and fifty-five laborers.
There has been and is an ample supply of water and a sufficiency of
fuel, principally in the shape of lumber, flooring, and gun carriages.
Immediately after the transfer of the garrison to this place, and your
assuming command, instructions were given to limit the defense to the
barbette and first tier, closing all openings in that tier, except three
or four at each angle, where guns were to be mounted, and all openings
in the second tier, permanently and securely. The first labors were
directed to mounting the proposed armament, and to closing these
openings, after which such defenses were prepared as the situation of
the garrison suggested, until this date, when the condition of the work
is as follows:
Barbette tier.The armament is fully described in the accompanying
figure.* It consists, in all, of twenty-seven guns, one of which, a 42-
pounder, is mounted at the left shoulder angle on a casemate carriage
placed on the chassis of a 10-inch columbiad, and a 24-pounder at the
left gorge angle is so arranged and the parapet so cut away that it can
be depressed to 18~ and fired upon the end of the wharf. Several
machicoulis galleries of 1k-inch plank (five lined with 4-inch iron plate)
are placed on the parapet, one en the centerof each face and flank, and
three on the gorge, over amid commanding the main postern; 225 shells,
mostly 8-inch, are arranged as grenades, to be rolled oft the parapet and
exploded by means of a lanyard of proper length. Thunder-barrels are
placed at each angle and over the main gate; fragments of stone, brick,
* These diagrams are supplied by those following Foster to Totten, March 27, p. 225
Page 215
Ca& r. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 215
& c., along the breast-height for missiles; twenty-three flights of steps
lead to the parapet; ammunition in limber-boxes is placed convenient
for instant use, and grape, canister, shot, and shell in abundance at
each gun. Some five hundred cartridge bags have been made. The
powder is well stored in the first-story magazine in the left gorge angle.
Second tier.The 32-pounder on the right flank is dismounted the
forty-one 8-foot square openings are secnrely closed by a 3-foot brick
wall, laid in cement, and backed in twenty-seven by two feet of sand,
kept in place by a sheathing of boards or by barrels, in eight by two
feet of flagging-stones, laid dry, and in six by dry brick, or re-enforced
only by piles of finishing-stuff and flooring-boards.
Fir8t tier.The armament consists of twenty-seven guns, and is fully
described in the plan adjoined.* There are eighteen guns ready for
instant service, sixteen of the embrasures in front of which are closed
with the original 6-inch wooden shutter, and also with an inner 6-inch
shutter fitting closetothethroat,andthroughthecenterofwhicha
link from the outer shutter passes; an iron key tightens both firmly
together. Two are closed by iron shutters of i-inch iron plate; all are
further secured by a 10-foot brace abutting against the guu run from
battery. Where guns are mounted (9), but not required for immediate
nse, the embrasures (9) are closed temporarily, in addition to the outer
shutter, by stone flagging, notched to fit the throat and laid flat, or by
brick laid in mortar. There are fourteen einbrasnres, behind which
guns are not mounted, of which eight, on the flanks, are closed by an
18-inch brick wall laid in mortar against the outer shutter; one by the
dry-stone flagging, and the remainder (five) on the right face, by an
entire embrasure filling of brick and stone laid in mortai-.
The doors of the two posterns on the flanks are strengthened by 3-foot
brick walls laid in mortar against the outer doors.
0n the parade four 8-inch and one 10-inch columbiads are mounted
as mortars (see preceding plan), and point to Morris Island and Charles-
ton. All the, temporary buildings and the lumber have been removed
for fuel, the flagging turned on edge against the quarters or in the ends
of the casemates, the shell spread on the walks, the sand and brick
nsed, with a stone revetment, for splinter-proof traverses about the
guns and in front of the hospital. The lantern has been removed from
the light-house and placed on a platform in the center. The entire
parade is clear.
Main postern.A stone and brick wall laid in cement is built against
the outer gate to within four feet of the
lintel. It is three feet six inches thick i
and six feet high. Through it is a man-
hole one foot eleven inches wide. An 8-
inch sea-coast howitzer on a casemate-top
carriage only looks through the manhole.
In the door above the wall are four loop-
holes, reached by steps. One leaf of the
gate is firmly bolted shut; the other can
be opened or securely shut, and through
it and corresponding with the manhole in
the wall is a manhole closed by a door.
The outside of the gate and inside of the small door are covered with
i-inch iron. The inner door is fastened with a wooden cross-bar, and
has a manhole closed by a door; there are four loopholes in it, and two
* These diagrams are supplied by those following Foster to Totten, March 27, p. 225
Page 216
216 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. (CHAP. I.
in the cross wall to which it is hung. Material is at hand with which
to close the outer door permanently. The walls of the stairways leading
to the second Iloor are closed with
2 4 2 lA-inch plank, and openings over
-~ ~ the postern are arranged for throw
N K ing grenades.
jg, The gorge.Jn the second story
the thirty-four windows and six
magazine veutilators are protected
by placing in each two wrought-iron
embrasure jams, eight inches thick and three feet six inches long, per-
mitting of musketry fire over them. In the first story the seven doors
are closed with a 5-inch wooden shutter, against which, outside, is built
a 9-inch brick wall, laid in cement, and outside this a pintle stone, 8 feet
by 2 feet 2 inches by 1 foot 3 inches, with pieces of flagging, fastened in
with wooden wedges and melted lead; the six magazine ventilators by
large stones and lead against the wall and shutter- and fifteen windows
are closed by the pintle stone and flagging, fast~ned with the wedges
and lead. In all these openings the filling is placed against the offiset
at the throat, by which a solid wall, two feet thick and well secured in
the rear, has been obtained.
On the esplanade two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers are mounted on case-
mate carriages only, one each side of the main gate, to sweep the gorge
and the approaches to it. The stone, & c., has been removed, leaving
only a row along the edge to prevent grenades rolling off. Two fon-
gasses, of 12 feet diameter, charged with 50 pounds of powder, are placed
against the foot of the scarp wall, one in the center of each half gorge.
Two mines, charged with 25 pounds of powder, are sunk in the wharf
40 feet apart. A wooden fence, 8 feet high, at each end of the esplanade,
extends from the scarp to low water. The stones of the enrockment in
front of embrasures to be opened are removed. A deep cut jn the en-
rockment on the left flank obstructs communication.
Respectfully submitted.
G. W. SNYDER,
First Lieutenant of Engineers, U. S. Army.
T. SEYMOUR,
Brevet Captain and First Lieutenant, First Artillery.
[Indorsement.]
FORT SUMTER, 5. 0., March 25, 1861.
Report exhibiting the work done at Fort Sumter since its occupation
by the present garrison, and its condition at this date. Confidentially
communicated for the information of the War Department.
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March .25, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that everything is quiet around
us, and, with the exception of a few men at work on a temporary build-
ing adjoining the James Island mortar battery, no work appears to be
in progress. I shall finish to-night the solid filling of the last of th
Page 217
CHAP. 1.1
217
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
exterior loophole openings on the first tier of the gorge, also the con-
struction of the large splinter-proof traverse in front of the hospital.
To-morrow I shall cut away a small portion of the brick interior slope
so as to allow the 10-inch columbiad at the west gorge angle, barbette
tier, to be traversed sufficiently to fire on the Cummings Point batter-
ies. The construction of a second splinter-proof traverse to cover the
front of the magazine and ordnance room, will also be commenced. I
am having an inventory taken of all Engineer property, in accordance
with your directions of the 21st instant, received yesterday. I regret
that I am not able to make the return of property for the third and
fourth quarters of 1860, in cousequence of all papers relating to the sub-
ject (except the vouchers) being withheld by the authorities of South
Carolina. The reason that I delayed so long to make the property re-
turn for the third quarter is this: The commencement and rapid increase
of the work upon the fortifications in this harbor during the last month
of this quarter and the three months of the following quarter took all my
time and attention, and the purchases in town, and settlement of freight
bills and accounts, took all the time of my clerk, Mr. Legar~. I finally
hired another man to assist him to bring up the accounts and to enable
him to make the return of property, but before this was done they de-
sired to secede from the office. I insisted that Mr. Legard should finish
the property return, which he promised to do; but before he had finished
it the State seceded, and he left the office. My ove~seer also left me
suddenly on the 28th of December, and the hnrry of preparation for de-
f~nse prevented me taking an inventory of property at that time.
A considerable amount of material has been used in these prepara-
tions. I can assnre yon, however, that everything used has been well
applied and was necessary. Trusting that the above explanation of the
circumstances that prevented my making the required returns may be
found satisfactory,
I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
ENGINEER DEPARTMENT,
Washington, March 20,1861.
Capt. J. G. FOSTER, Corps of Engineers, Charleston, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: In compliance with your request in letter of the 20th in-
stant, the sum of $1,000 will be placed to your credit with the assist-
ant treasurer at New York on acconnt of Fort Sumter, and to guard
against the chance of its not being available in time, through the ina-
bility of the Treasurer to provide the money, instructions will be given
to Lieutenant Gillmore to see that your checks upon the assistant treas-
urer to that amount are honored.
It is hoped that in case of the evacuation of Fort Sumter you will be
able to bring away the books, drawings, papers, and perhaps light arti-
cles of value in your care, but it can hardly be expected that you can
secure the heavy articles of property. You shonld, however, do so if
you can.
Should the fort be evacuated, you will, as suggested in your letter of
the 14th instant, leave with the command, and report in person, with
your assistants, Lieutenants Snyder and Meade, at this Department.
Yery respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. G. TOTTEN,
Brevet Brigadier-General, and Colonel of Engineers
Page 218
218 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHip. I.
No. 84.] FoRT SUMTER, S. C., March 26, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., March 29.)
Col. L. ThOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that quite a large party is busy
this morning on what is probThly a bomb-proof in rear of the large
work near Fort Johnson. They have extended and heightened several
of the works on Morris Jsland, particularly No. 1 of Captain Seymours
sketches.
We are constructing splinter-proofs on the parade, and closing the
opening in the gorge wall. I have the honor to mention that Mr.
iLamon, from Washington City, visited me yesterday.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
P. S.I inclose herewith a correspondence between the South Caro.
lina officials and myself in reference to some points to which attention
was called some time since. Expecting a reply to my last communica-
tion, I have delayed sending these letters oW but now do so, as no re-
joinder will probably be made.
Respectfully,
R.A.
[Inclosure No. 1.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 13, 1861.
His Excellency Gov. F. W. PICKENS:
SIR: I have the honor herewith respectfully to inclose, for the con-
sideration of your excellency, a note received yesterday by the clerk of
Captain Foster from the beef contractor, which appears to show an
interference with your excellencys orders.
I am confident in the event of your excellency having made any
change in your instructions in reference to my supplies I would have
been promptly notified thereof. A similar interference may have pre-
vented my receiving some boxes of solidified milk, which have been
several days in the city to my address and which cannot have been de-
tained on account of freight, as it was prepaid. This certainly would
not, in the eyes of the transportation agent, come under the head of
contraband of war or prohibited articles. It may be as well for me to
mention here a few points which have not received that attention to
which I think they are entitled.
About six weeks ago I sent, under cover to Col. L. M. Hatch, quar-
termaster-general, a note from Sergeant Renehan, of this command, to
his brother-in-law, asking him to send from Fort Moultrie his private
property, which was already packed up, and I respectfully asked Col-
onel Hatch if he would be pleased to give it his attention. No reply
has been received to my communication, nor have the articles been sent.
About a month since instructions were given by the honorable Secre-
tary of War that Captain Fosters private property on Sullivans Island,
as well as some public papers in the office in Charleston, should be sent
down. Neither the property nor the papers have yet been received here.
Early in January I sent some officers to Fort Moultrie for certain pri-
vate property left there. They were received in so different a m~mnner
from the ~ivility and courtesy that characterized the manner of Colonel
IDe Saussure that I - have not ventured to make another attempt to ob-
tain possession of it, and I am thus cut off from regimental books (not
public property) and office papers, valuable, to us, and merely interest-
ing to others
Page 219
OnAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 219
Some of the officers of this command have been put to consider-
able inconvenience and discomfort by the detention in the city of their
hired servant, who left the post with a permit from the honorable Sec-
retary of War. His detention after the discovery that the correspond-
ence, at first characterized as a very improper one, proved to be noth-
ing more than what might have been expected between any silly persons
in their situations, is unwarranted. I attached no importance to this
matter from the first, and so remarked to a gentleman who came down
to see me in reference to it. No one, not even an owner of a slave,
would have a right, under such circumstances, to prevent his return,.
and it was nudoubtedly called for in this case by common civility and
courtesy, as the officers have no opportunity of replacing him.
In regard to packages arriving from time to time, through the express
or otherwise, if it is necessary to trouble your excellency for special
permits whenever articles of such minor importance as condiments,
& c., are to be sent down to us, it is questionable with me whether it
would not be better for us to do without them altogether, and to send
instructions to the various express companies not to receive any pack-
ages destined for my command.
With sentiments of high consideration and regard,
I am, very respectfully, your excellencys obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, CL ~. Army, Gommanding.
(Inclosure No. 2.]
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF WAR,
Charleston, S. C., March 15, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON:
Sin: I am instructed by his excellency the governor to inform you
that he is unwilling to modify his original permission that you should
receive from the markets in this city such supplies of fresh meat and
vegetables as you might indicate. A proper investigation will be in-
stituted to inquire what obstacle has been interposed to the execution
of the orders given on the subject.
I will inquire why Lieutenant-Colonel Hatch has not sent the private
property of Sergeant Renehan which was left at Fort Moultrie.
With respect to the furniture left by Captain Foster in the house occu-
pied by him before he left Sullivans Island, and the papers, & c., left
in his office in this city, I reply that Captain Simonton was requested to
separate the furniture claimed by Captain Foster from his own, and
send it to Fort Sumter through the quartermaster-general. This has
been delayed, I believe, chiefly on account of some reclamations on the
part of Captain Simonton for injnries done to his own furniture during
the time the house was occupied by Captain Foster, and for rent. I
have been informed that the matter has been attended to by Captain
Simonton within the past few days, and I will take steps to have Cap-
tain Fosters property sent to him without delay. As to the papers,
Mr. Legar~, who was indicated by Captain Foster as a proper person to
carry .oat his wishes, reported to me that he had collected and sent the
papers, & c., to Captain Foster.
With respect to the property which you failed to recover from Fort
Moultrie, I am in formed by Lieutenant-Colonel Ripley that he sent word
to you that if you would transmit an inventory of any articles of prop-
erty left by you he would endeavor to collect and send them to you, but
that he received no reply to his offer
Page 220
220 3PERATLONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
As to the servant referred to in your letter, it is proper that I should
say that I am unwilling to discuss any question of right or courtesy
growing out of the case beyond the unquestionable privilege of a slave
owner to permit or not, at his own pleasure, the return of his slave to a
hostile fort; but, as you have put a different interpretation on the lan-
guage employed by me in my letters on the subject than I designed, I
desire to state what I did mean: The very improper correspondence~~
between the slaves to which I alluded had reference to the slaves alone,
as information was given by the woman to the boy of operations in this
city which were not proper to be communicated to any one iu your gar-
rison, and the reply of the boy clearly showed that his temper and prin-
ciples had not been improved by a residence in Fort Sumter. The other
words of mine, which you quote nothing more than what might have
been expected between silly persons in their ~ meant as
kind expressions on my part, to disabuse the minds of Dr. Crawford
and other officers at the fort of any unfavorable impression upon me
of a complicity on their part with the improper correspondence of idle
negroes.
I am, sir, respectfully, yours,
D. F. JAMISON.
[Inclosure No. 3.]
FORT Su~wrnn, S. C., March 17, 1861.
Hon. ID. F. JAmu~oN, Executive Office, Department of War:
Sin: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communica-
tion of the 15th instant in reply to mine of the 13th to his excellency
the governor.
I hasten to ask you to refer to my letter to his excellency, and you
will see that I did not solicit any modification of his original permission
about receiving supplies of fresh meat and vegetables. I am satisfied
with the existing arrangement, and only called attention to a reported
interference of it. I thank you for your promise in reference to the
property of Captain Foster.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ripley did kindly offer to attend to collecting any
~private property left on the island by the officers, and I thanked him
for having done so.
The property alluded to in my note is not, strictly speaking, private,
but belongs to the regiment or post, and therefore was not, in my opin-
ion, embraced in his offer. My object in mentioning this matter was to
call attention to it, in order that such directions might be given regard-
ing it as might be deemed proper.
I beg leave to assure you that I had no desire to discuss the question
of right or of courtesy in reference to the treatment my officers received
in the failure to return the hired boy, and my remarks were intended to
apply to the professed owner of the boy, who, neglecting his duty as
owner or master for months, had permitted the boy to hire himself out,
every one supposing him to be free, and now, at a time when the exer-
cise of his undoubted right puts gentlemen here to a serious incon-
venience, for the first time asserts his rights of ownership.
His excellency mentions in his letter to me, received yesterday, that the
boy is a slave, and, of course, that ends the matter. In justice to my-
self I must state that I did not intentionally place a forced construction
on your words. The day your first letter was received about the boy a
gentlemen came down to see me about the improper correspondence,~~
which he was told had reference to the negroes joining us in the even
Page 221
Cxi.~r. 1)
221
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
of a collision. He remarked to his informants, as he told me, that he
thought it a foolish story, advised them to say nothing about it, and
said that he was certain, at all events, that I had no idea of anything
of the kind, and came down to tell me of the rumor.
I regret exceedingly that your letter contains the remark it does in
reference to the effect of a residence at Fort Sumter on the boys tem-
per and principles, and I am satisfied that, upon farther consideration,
you will regret it.
1 am, sir, respectfully, yours, & c.,
ANDERSON,
Major, U. S. Army, 6lommanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. 0., March 26, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have nothing of interest to report connected with opera-
tions in the batteries around us. There seems to be a general lack of
activity, and the little that is being done is at the channel batteries on
Morris Island and the mortar battery on James Island. The indications
of a coming storm appear. In this fort the closing of the exterior open-
ings in the first tier of the gorge is completed, and the work on the splin-
ter~proof traverses continued. The sixth and last temporary building
on the parade is being demolished for fuel. Some lumber and one con-
demned gun carriage have already been burned.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
P. S.A messenger from the President of the United States arrived
yesterday about 2 oclock, and after delivering his dispatches and hay-
n interview with Major Anderson, departed about 3 oclock. Mr.
ing a
Lamon, I understand, was the gentlemans name, and he was escorted
to the fort from the city by Colonel iDuryea, of the governors staffi
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
No. 85.] FORT SUMTER, S C., March 27, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., March 30.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that three heavy guns were landed
yesterday at Cummings Point, and that this morning we can only see
that they are working at the place at Fort Johnson mentioned in yester-
days letter. I send herewith a correspondence which has taken place
since my last date between Brigadier-General Beauregard and myself.
They may have misunderstood a remark which 1 have made, viz, that if
attacked, and I found that I could not hold possession of the fort, that
I would blow it up, sacrificing our lives in preference to permitting our-
selves to fall into their hands. I hope that the authorities here now
nnderstand distinctly that I shall give no pledges whatever. I shall do
nothing which is not fully justified by the highest sense of honorable and
straightforward dealing, and will not permit from any source any insiu
Page 222
222 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
rOHAP. I.
ation that I liave acted in any other manner in the performance of my
duty, & c., here.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure No. 1.]
CHARLESTON, S. 0., March 26, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
U. S. Army, Gommanding at Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, S. 6k:
Mv DEAR MAJOR: Having been informed that Mr. Lamon, the author-
ized agent of the President of the United States, advised Governor
Pickens, after his interview with you at Fort Sumter, that yourself and
command would be transferred to another post in a few days, and under-
standing that you are under the impression I intended under all circum-
stances to require of you a formal surrender or capitulation, I hasten to
disabuse you, and to inform you that our countries not being at war, and
wishing as far as lies in my power to avoid the latter calamity, no such
condition will be exacted of you, unless brought about as the natural
result of hostilities.
Whenever you will be prepared to leave the forty if you will inform
Governor Pickens or myself of your intentions relative thereto, we will
be happy to see that you are provided with proper means of transporta-
tion out of this harbor for yourself and command, including baggage,
private and company property. All that will be required of you on
account of the public rumors that have reached us will be your word
of honor as an officer and a gentleman, that the fort, all public property
therein, its armament, & c., shall remain in their present condition, with-
out any arrangements or preparation for their destruction or injury after
you shall have left the fort.
On our part no objection will be raised to your retiring with your
side and company arms, and to your saluting your flag on lowering it.
Hoping to have the pleasure of meeting you soon under more favorable
circumstances,
I remain, dear major, yours, very truly,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 26, 1861.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
Mv DEAR GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt
of your letter of this date, and hasten to say that I needed no denial
from you of the expression attributed to you. The moment I heard
that you had said that I should not leave this fort without surrendering
I remarked that it was not true, and that I knew you had not said so.
I am much obliged to his excellency the governor and yourself for the
assurances you give me, but you must pardon me for saying that I feel
deeply hurt at the intimation in your letter about the conditions which
will be exacted of me, and I must state most distinctly that if I can only
be permitted to leave on the pledge you mention I shall never, so help
me God, leave this fort alive.
Hoping that you do not mean what yourwords express, and in tha
Page 223
CH~. I] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 223
case cordially nniting with you in the wish that we may have the
pleasure of meeting under more favorable circumstances,
I remain, dear general, yours truly,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, U. S. Army, Commanding.
(Inclosure No. 3.]
CHARLESTON, S. C., March 26, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON
U. S. Army, Commanding at Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, S. C.:
M~ DEAR MAJOR: I have the honor to acknowledge your letter of
this date, and hasten to disabuse you as to any intention on my par1~
of wounding, in any manner whatsoever, the feelings of so gallant an
officer by anything I may have written in my letter of this morning.
I only alluded to the pledge referred to by you on account of the
high source from which the rumors spoken of appeared to come, and
which, in the eyes of many officers of high standing, might be con-
sidered a sufficient reason for executing orders which otherwise they
would not approve of; but I regret now having referred to the subject.
I remain, dear major, yours very truly, -
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
[Inclosure No. 4.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 27, 1861.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
Mv DEAR GENERAL: I hasten, in reply to your kind and satisfac-
tory note of yesterday afternoon, just received, to express my gratifi-
cation at its tenor. I only regret that rumors from any source made
you, for one moment, have the slightest doubt as to the straight path
of honor and auty, in which I trust, by the blessing of God, ever to be
found.
I am, dear general, yours sincerely,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, U. S. Army, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 27, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The only work being done this morning in the surround-
ing batteries is on Cummings Point, where small parties, apparently of
soldiers, are at work on the parapets of battery No. 3 (looking towards
Fort Moultrie) and the redoubt on the sand hill in rear of the Star of
the West battery. They appear to be repairing the damages caused
by the wind and rain of yesterday and last night. More guns were
landed on Cummings Point, but how many I cannot tell. Three of
them, apparently 24-pounders on siege carriages, are now on the beach
at the place of landing.
Two messengers from the city, Lient. S. W. Ferguson, formerly of
the Army, and Colonel Chisolm, came yesterday as bearers of a letter
to Major Anderson from General Beauregard.
My operations are confined to the collection and counting of materials
Page 224
224 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. (CaB.?. I.
clearing of the parade, construction of splinter-proof traverse in front
of ordnance room, and cutting of interior slope of parapet, so as to
allow the 10-inch columbiad at the west gorge ang~ie to traverse so as
to fire on all the batteries on Cummings Point.
It was with great pleasure that I received the expressions of the
approval of the Department contained in your letter of the 23d.
I inclose herewith a sketch showing the arrangement of guns, & c.,
on the first and third tiers of this work.# This arrangement will prob-
ably not be altered unless active operations be commenced against the
work.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
[Tudorsemexit.]
Left with Assistant Adjutant-General Townsend for the information
of General Scott. Returned to Engineer Department April 2,1861.
II. G. W.
No. 86.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 28, 1861.
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that everything was quiet last
night. As we do nQt see the iron-plated floating battery this mo ruing
in the position it has occupied for some time, it is probable that it has
been moved to guard some one of their exposed entrances. They are
still engaged at the new work at Fort Johnson.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 28, 1861.
General JoS. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Very little is being done in the hostile batteries beyond
the repairing of damages to parapets, except at the James Island mortar
battery, where about fifty men are at work on the covered way to the
left flank of the intrenchments, and upon an extension of the battery
to the right. The floating battery was moved from her moorings last
night, and removed to some place not within sight. The city papers
stated some days since that she was to be taken to the mouth of the
Stono, and it is probable that she was taken down there, on the high
tide of last night, through Wappoo Creek.
The two messengers of the day before came again yesterday, with a
second commnnication from General Beauregard to Major Anderson.
Upon the whole, appearances are very pacific in this harbor at present,
and no hostile demonstrations are made, or great activity in preparation
exhibited. The three siege guns still remain in the same position on
the beach at Cummings Point.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
5For sketch see p. 225
Page 225
225
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDJ~NCE, ETC.UNION.
[Tuclosure.]
8~COL
WITH ~TO5E)
15 R R
ENGINEER DEPT.,
March 30th, 1861.
Reed with Capt. Fosters letter
of 27th March, 1861. (F.2000.)
42 PR I
8~ CO
Page 226
226 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
FORT SUMTER, S. C -, ]Iliarch 28, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor to report that there is a general suspen-
sion of operations in the batteries around us. The guns and materials
on the beach on Cummings Point remain in precisely the same position
they have occupied for three days. No repairs of parapets even are
in progress, and it is reported that the sling-cart was removed to the
city yesterday. At the mortar battery on James Island, where a few
hands have been constantly at work for some time, there is now no
appearance of labor.
I have received your letter of the 26th, and will follow its instructions.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers..
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 28, 1861.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
DEAR GENERAL: A military irregularity occurred yesterday, which
I deem proper to mention to you. I heard, a~er your flag had returned
to the city, that a parcel had been brought in the boat, and left, with-
out my knowledge. Orders have been given which will prevent the
recurrence of such an irregularity. Nothing should have been received
from the boat except your letter. Trusting that in a few days we shall
be placed in a position which will be more agreeable and acceptable to
both of us than the anomalous one we now occupy,
I am, dear general, yonrs, truly,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Jliajor, U. S. Army, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., March 29, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON, U. S. Army,
Commanding at Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, S. C.:
DEAR MAJOR: Your note of yesterday has just been received. I re-
gret to hear of the irregularity complained of. When I approved of
the parcel referred to being carried to Fort Sumter, it was supposed, as
a matter of course, that it would not be received without your consent.
No further privileges of the kind will hereafter be granted.
Hoping that we may soon meet on the same friendly footing as here-
tofore, I remain, dear major, yours, very truly,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
EXECUTIVE MANSION, March 29, 1861.
Honorable SECRETARY OF WAR:
SIR: I desire that an expedition, to move by sea, be got ready to
sail as early as the 6th of April next, the whole according to memoran-
dum attached, and that you co-operate with the Secretary of the Navy
for that object.
Your obedient servant,
A. LINCOLN
Page 227
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 227
[Inclosure No. 1.1
NAVY DEPARTMENT. Preliminary orders.Steamers Pocahontas at
Norfolk, Pawnee at Washington, Harriet Lane at New York (Treas-
ury Department), to be under sailing orders for sea, with stores, & c.,
for one month. Three hundred meu to be kept ready for departure from
ou board the receiving ships at New York.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
WAR DEPARTMENT. Preliminary.Two hundred men to be ready
to leave Governors Island in New York. Supplies for twelve mouths
for one hundred men to be put in portable shape, ready for instant
shipping. A large steamer and three tugs conditioually engaged.
MARcH 28, 1861.
No. 87.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 29, 1861.
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report everything quiet. The sling-
cart was removed from Morris Island last evening, showing, probably,
that they have finished for the~present the moving of guns, & c., on that
island. We see nothing going on but the continued prosecution of the
work at Fort Johnson. The sick-repoit embraces eight to-day, but all
the cases, with the exception of two of rupture, are slight.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Ifajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 88.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., 3liareh 30, 1861.
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to say that we see them engaged this
morning as reported yesterday. They have commenced filling up the
embrasure in the battery at the landing at Cummings Point.
On fnrther reflection, it occurs to me that the floating battery may
have been towed down to some point whence it may be bronght at
high tide through, perhaps, Light-house Creek, to the position intended
near ns.
I see that there is a small troop of cavalry on Sullivans Island.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]lfajor, First Artillery, C~ommanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., 1Jfareh 30, 1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Everything is quiet. The embrasures of the breaching
battery No. 1 are closed, two of them with sand bags laid in solidly, and
two with more temporary screens. Some men are at work on battery
No. 3, apparently closing its three embrasures more solidly than before,
with sand bags. No other work appears in progress on Morris Island
Page 228
228 OPERATIONS IN CHARLE~TON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
On James Island a party of fifty men are at work extending and en-
larging the mortar battery at its right flank. This is evidently to be so
enlarged and furnished with guns as to constitute the strong point on
which rests the left flank of the line of iutrenchments which covers Fort
Johnson, and perhaps the city on that side. In this fort, the splinter-
proof traverses being completed aud the parade well cleared, the men
are at work hoisting to the terre-plein the 32-pounder chassis, to be used
for temporary traverses between the guns.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain of Engineers.
No. 89.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 31, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 4.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we do not see any work
going on this morning. Yesterday, in consequence of the members of
the Convention coming down, a great deal of firing of shot and shell
took place at Fort Moultrie and from the batteries on Morris Island.
The three batteries outside of the Star of the West have certainly
guns of very heavy caliber this we know from the great extent of the
ranges and from the reports.
As our provisions are very nearly exhausted, I have requested Cap-
tain Foster to discharge his laborers, retaining only enough for a boats
crew. I hope to get them off to-morrow. The last barrel of flour was
issued day before yesterday.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., March 31, 1861.
cGeneral Jos. G. TOTTEN.
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Yesterday the members of the State Cduvention visited the
batteries on Morris Island and Fort Moultrie, and from both places
extensive firing took place in honor of the event. This gave me an
opportunity of observing what batteries have been increased in strength
since my last report on this subject.
The following is the present armament very nearly, viz:
Battery No. 1.Four guns. Embrasures closed by sand bags. Not
fired. yesterday.
Mortar battery between Nos. 1 and 2.Three mortars. Fired yes-
terday. These have practiced much lately, to obtain the range and
length of fuse for this fort.
Battery No. 2, iron-clad.Three heavy guns. Two of them fired
yesterday.
Battery No. 3.Three guns. Embrasures closed with sand bags.
Did not fire.
Mortar battery between Nos. 3 and 4.Two mortars. Fired yes-
terday.
Battery No. 4.Three guns. Two fired~
Battery No. ~.Four heavy guns, one columbiad or 8-inch sea-coas
Page 229
CHAP. Li CORRESPONIA~NcE, ETC.UNION.
229
howitzer. Two fired yesterday.
battery, although only four have
Star of the West battery.
Four heavy guns, one of them
an S-inch columbiad or 8-inch
sea-coast howitzer. All fired
yesterday.
Battery No. 7.These guns
are not all in the same battery,
but are distributed along the
beach apparently in three bat-
teries. Eleven guns fired yes-
terday. All were very heavy
guns except two, which I think
were field pieces iu a sort of
second tier at a and b.
Above these batteries, oil
the sand hills, is a line of in-
trenchments surrounding a5
house, and also several tents.
The field pieces are apparently
at a and b, capable of being
used to defend the fiahks of
this intrenchment, and to fire
on the channel. Their rear
is covered, each with a trav-
erse.
It was evident in this firing
that not all the guns in posi-
tion were fired.
At Fort Moultrie the firing
exhibited the same complete
armament as last reported.
The provisions that I laid in
for my force having become ex-
hausted, and the supplies of the
command being too limited to
spare me any more, I am
obliged to discharge nearly all
my men b-day. I retain only
enough to man a boat.
I have the honor to be,very
respectfully, your obedient ser-
vant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
I think there are six
been seen to fire.
[Inclosuro.]
guns in this
NAVY DEPARTMENT
Washington, April 1, 1861.
To the COMMANDANT OF THE NAVY-YARD, Brooklyn N. Y.:
Fit out the Powhatan to go to sea at the earliest possible moment
under sealed orders. Orders by a confidential messenger go forward
to-morrow.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
Page 230
230 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. LOHAP. I.
No. 90.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 1, 1861.
(Received A. G 0., April 4.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that everything is still and
quiet, as far as we cau see, around us. The South Carolina Secretary
of War has not sent the authority, asked for yesterday to enable me
to send off the discharged laborers. Having been in daily expectation,
since the return of Colonel Lamon to Washington, of receiving orders
to vacate this post, I have kept these meu here as long as I could; but
noxv, having nearly completed the important work of cleaning up the
area, & c., I am compelled, in consequence of the small supply of pro-
visions on hand, to discharge them. An examination of the accom-
panying report of the A. A. C. S. will show that the supply of pro-
visions brought over would, had the issues been limited to my command,
have lasted for a longer period than that mentioned in my letter of
December 26, 1860. I have not made frequent mention of the question
of our rations, because the Department was kept fully informed, from
time to time, of the state of our supply. Lieutenants Talbot and Hall
gave full information in reference to it when they went on, and on the
27th of January a detailed statement was sent on, from which any one
in the Commissary Department could have told, knowing the number
of souls in the fort, including the Engineer laborers, the exact amount
on hand at any given time. *
I told Mr. Fox that if I placed the command on short allowance I
could make the provisions last until after the 10th of this month; but
as I have received no instructions from the Department that it was
desirable I should do so, it has not been done. If the governor permits
me to send off the laborers we will have rations enough to last us about
one week longer.
Jam, colonel,very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Jiliajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 1, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON, First Artillery, Commanding:
MAJOR: In compliance with yonr request, I have the honor to sub-
mit the following list of provisions sold to Capt. J. G. Foster, Corps of
Engineers, for the subsistence of tIme employ6s in his department at
this post, and have expressed the quantities in numbers of rations, viz:
Five and one-half barrels of porkone thousand four hundred and
sixty-seven rations.
Twenty barrels of flourthree thousand four hundred and eighty-five
rations.
One hundred and eighty pounds hard breadone hundred and eighty
rations.
Two and one-half bushels of beansone thousand rations.
One hundred and seventy-four pounds coffeeone thousand seven
hundred and forty rations.
Seven hundred and seventy-four pounds sugarfive thousand one
hundred and sixty rations.
See also inclosure to Major Andersons letter of March 22, p. 211
Page 231
CHAP. .1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 231
These provisions, which have necessarily been consumed by others,
would have added to the time we have already been at this post sub-
sistence for the following number of days, respectively:
PorkSixteen and twenty-seven-ninetieths days.
Flour and hard breadForty and sixty-five-ninetieths days.
BeansEleven and one-ninth days.
CoffeeNineteen and one-third days.
SugarFifty-seven and one-third days.
Or, with what is now on hand, at least thirty-five days of comfortable
subsistence for the command, including the laundresses, who were sent
away about two months ago.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
NORMAN J. HALL,
Second Lieutenant, First Artillery, A. A. C. S.
APRIL 1, 1861.
Extract from report of operations for the month of March, 1861, at Fort
Sumter, Charleston ilarbor, S. C.
* * * * * * *
The operations of the month comprise the mounting of two 42-poundeDs
one at the left shoulder angle and the other at the west gorge angle
by means of a casemate-top carriage adapted to 10-inch columbiad
chassis; the elevating to the terre-plein of two 10-inch columbiads with
their carriages, and mounting themone at the west gorge angle and
the other at the east gorge angle; moving two 32-pounders from the
left face to the gorge, and remounting them; closing up the exterior
loophole openings of the first tier on the gorge by large blocks of stone,
with the interstices filled with molten lead; erecting two large splinter-
proof traverses on the paradeone in front of the hospital and the
other of the ordnance room; hoisting the surplus gun carriages to the
terre-plein, and commencing to form splinter-proof traverses of them;
making implements for serving the guns, and better fastenings for the
main gates, and iron casing to the manhole door through the same.
Respectfully submitted.
J. G. FOSTER,
~Japtain, Engineers.
FORT SUMTER
General Jos. G. TOTTEN, , S. C., April 2 1861
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: Owing to a dense fog which has prevailed since last
evening nothing can be seen beyond a few yards from the fort. There
are no indications to believe that there is any movement on foot, or that
the state of partial inactivity last reported has been at all changed.
The necessary permit from the governor for the discharged men to
land at Fort Johnson did not arrive in season yesterday, consequently
they remained, and will probably leave at 12 m. to-day.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers
Page 232
232 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
No. 91.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 2, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 5.)
Col. L THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. AS~. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report everything quiet, and, as far
as we can see, no work going on.
I received to-day a copy of General Orders No. 7, assigning Brevet
Captain Talbot to duty in the Adjutant-Generals Department. The
captain having remained with this garrison during our imprisonment
in this fort is very desirous of being permitted to stay as long as the
command does, and as we have so few officers I shall take the liberty
of keeping him a few days longer, until I am certain there will be no
need of his services.
Our sick-list is, I am sorry to say, on the increase. The doctor
reports this morning two cases of dysentery. The governor has not
yet given authority for me to send off the Engineer employ6s.
Jam, colonel,very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 92.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 3, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 6.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we do not see them at
work this morning. One of the guard-boats anchored at 8 oclock last
night (a schooner) about four hundred yards from the left shoulder
angle of this work. She is still there.
The governor of South Carolina has not sent the permission alluded to
yesterday, and to day notice has been received that no butter can be
sent down and only one quarter of a box of soap. These little matters
indicate, perhaps, an inteiition to stop our supplies entirely. I must,
therefore, most respectfully and urgently ask for instructions what I am
to do as soon as my provisions are exhausted. Our bread will last four
or five days.
Hoping that definite and full instructions will be sent to me imme-
diately,
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
WASHINGTON, April 3, 1861.
To the SECRETARY OF WAR:
Under the strongest convictions on some military questions upon
which great political events seem about to turn, I feel impelled to state
them, since they are of a nature to derive, possibly, a little weight from
my official relation to them, and since, moreover, circumstances might
canse my failing to make the statement in time to be considered as a
grave delinquency. I refer particularly to the question of defending or
abandoning Fort Sumter and Fort Pickens.
Fort Sumter.In addition to what I have heretofore said as to the
impracticability of efficiently re-enforcing and supplying this fort, I will
now say only that if the fort was filled with men and munitions it coul
Page 233
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 233
hold out but a short time. It would be obliged to surrender with much
loss of life, for it would be bravely and obstinately defended, and the
greater the crowd within the greater the proportionate loss. This issue
can be averted only by sending a large army and navy to capture all
the surrounding forts and batteries, and to assemble and apply these
there is now no time. If we do not evacuate Fort Sumter it will be
wrested from us by force.
Fort Pickens.Were this fort provided with a garrison of eight
hundred or one thousand good soldiers, fully supplied with everything
necessary to the best defeuse, and ably commanded, its utmost term of
resistance would be about three weeksrather less than more. Were
the besieging army practiced in the war of sieges, it would hardly be
maintained for a fortnight. With a garrison of three hundred to five
hundred men only, and in its present destitution of essential means, its
siege supplies consisting of guns and ammunition merely, and these
scanty and not of the best kind, the siege must be a very short one. But
even the making good the deficiencies would, as stated above, only
defer the issue for a week or so. In any case a quick surrender would
be inevitable.
Reo~ardino the fort of co-operation on one side or the
independently
other of a naval force, or of other fortifications in the harbor, these con-
clusions are not to be doubted, with out disregarding all military expe-
rience. The occupation by the investing forces of the shore opposite,
with numerous batteries pouring their showers of shot and shell into
the fort while the regular siege operations upon Santa Rosa Island
were going on, would materially abridge the term of resistance. A naval
force uniting in the defense, but confined to the waters outside of the
harbor, might, to a certain extent, increase the casualties of the besiegers,
but would not materially retard the operations. In that case the
approaches would be l~1shed along the inshore face of the island, leav-
ing the breadth of the island, with its sand hills and ridges, between
them and the ships; and, moreover, two or three batteries planted on
the out-shore face, and sheltered from the fire of the fort by sand hills
and traverses, would compel ships to keep an out-of-range offing. Could
this naval force act upon the bay side of Santa Rosa Island as well as
npon the sea side, the progress of a siege, if practicable at all, might be
greatly retarded. Under such circumstances this kind of attack would
hardly be undertaken. Were the investing forces numerous and enter-
prising they might, nevertheless, even then attempt a coup de main;
and, provided the garrison were weak in numbers, and worn out by a
protracted cannonade and bombardment from the opposite shore, the
chances of success would warrant the attempt.
But I consider that the passing oC vessels of war into the bay would
be a very hazardous proceeding in the face of Fort MeiRee, Fort Barrancas,
its advanced battery, and several other batteries that all accounts agree
in stating have been erected and mounted along the shore, from the
navy-yard inclusive to and beyond the light-house. It is possible, how-
ever, that this channel might be passed at night by swift war steamers
without utter destruction, and there might be retained by one or more
of them enough efficiency to prevent the hostile occupation of the lower
part of Santa Rosa Island, and the prosecution there of siege operations
against Fort Pickens. In such event resort would certainly be had to
cannonade and bombardment from the batteries on the opposite shore,
and these plied with vigor and perseverance would at last reduce the
fort to a condition incapable of resisting vigorous assault, since the gar-
rison would be exhausted, and the means of defense on the cannonade
Page 234
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
234 [CHAP. I.
side have little efficiency left to them. The masonry on that part of the
fort is exposed to sight, and to battering from top to bottom, and is
pierced besides by a gateway and numerous embrasures, greatly weaken-
ing it. Every shot fired from the other shore would strike the walls,
and every shell fall within them. With a brave and well-supplied gar-
rison there would be an obstinate holding out, no doubt, but a surrender
would at last close a scene in which on our side no other military virtues
had room for display but fortitude and patience. The response of the
fort to shot and shell would be by shot and shell, but with little propor-
tionate chanc~ of injury to the enemys impassive batteries of sand.
This last mode of attack could be prevented, even with the command
of the inner waters only, by lauding upon the main shore a military
force sufficient to capture all these forts and batteries, including the
navy-yard. Admitting the supposition (quite unreasonable as I estimate
our available army force) that we can before it is too late disperse the
3,000 or 5,000 men now in hostile array there and regain these posses-
sions, what then 0? The Confederate States can assemble a large addi-
tional military force at Montgomery by railroad, and throw it down also
by railroad upon Pensacola. Here there would be the struggle between
the two armieson land, and not between forts and batteries.
The question that next arises is not whether this great nation is able
with time to supply ample means in soldiers and munitions for such a
conflict, but whether, having expended nearly all its ready strength in
reconquering the harbor fortifications and navy-yard, it could scud
timely and adequate re-enforcements. With our present military estab-
lishment and existing military laws I do not see how this would be pos-
sible before all that had been gained would be lost.
The seceded States, considering themselves as in a state of quasi war-
fare, see that if there is to be a struggle the very utmost of their mili-
tary energies and resources will be called for. .They see, besides that
to contend with the greater chance of success they must profit by our
present state of military weakness, and under the first glow of a great
i)olitical change they rush ardently into the requisite preparations. ITpon
the battle-field of Pensacola or its environs they are now stronger than we
can become without. the help of Congress, and they can and will aug-
ment their strength ~here if necessary beyond anything we can hope to
do for yet many months.
The above and much like reasoning convince me that we cannot
retain Fort Pickens, provided the other side is really in earnest, and
follows up with like promptitude and energy their early military prepa-
rations. If we do not vacate this fort the result predicted as to Fort
Sumter will certainly be realized here alsoit will be taken from us by
violence.
Should the above reasoning not meet acceptance, or for political rea-
sons should it be decided to hold and defend this fort to the last, then
I have to say that every soldier that can be spared should be sent to its
relief with the utmost dispatch, accompanied by military supplies of
every kind and in the greatest abundance.
To supply in some sort the want of a naval force within the bay as
large a force as can be spared from the immediate protection of the fort
should be encamped upon Santa Rosa Island at some distance from the
fort, maintaining communication with it and detaching parties to watch
the upper part of the island. These will give timely notice of the
entrance thereupon of hostile troops, and will prevent the erection of
batteries against our ships lying off shore, through which all supplies
for the fort must be derived
Page 235
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 235
While the fort is uninjured many men need not remain within its walls
to secure it from surprise or escalade. Of course the detached troops
must be kept within reach of quick recall. Such measures may delay
somewhat, though neither these nor any others now within our reach
will, in my opinion, prevent the loss of Fort Pickens.
I present these thoughts to the consideration of the Secretary of War,
and, if he thinks them of sufficient interest, to the perusal of the Presi-
dent, because they force themselves from me by the vehemence of the
convictions.
Treating it purely as a professional question, I do not presume to
advise as to the policy of the Government in this connection, merely
presenting what seem to me to be incontrovertible facts and inevitable
consequences of a military nature, that may, perhaps, be allowed to
bear upon the political question.
Having no personal ambition or party feeling to lead or mislead me
to conclusions, I have maturely studied the subject as a soldier bound
to give all his faculties to his country, which may God preserve in peace!
Respectfully submitted.
JOS. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer.
WAR DEPARDIENT,
Washington, D. C., April 4, 1861.
Major ROBERT ANDERSON, U. S. Army:
SIR: Your letter of the 1st instant occasions some anxiety to the
President.
On the information of Captain Fox he had supposed you could hold
out till the 15th instant without any great inconvenience; and had pre-
pared an expedition to relieve you before that period.
Hoping still that you will be able to sustain yourself till the 11th or
12th instant, the expedition will go forward; and, finding your flag
flying, will attempt to provision you, and, in case the effort is resisted,
will endeavor also to re-enforce you.
You will therefore hold out, if possible, till the arrival of the expe-
dition.
It is not, however, the intention of the President to subject your com-
mand to any danger ~r hardship beyon4 what, in your judgment, would
be usual in military life; and he has entire confidence that you will act
as becomes a patriot and soldier, under ~ll circumstances.
Whenever, if at all, in your judgment, to save yourself and command,
a capitulation becomes a necessity, you are authorized to make it.
Respectfully, SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, April 4, 1861.
Capt. G. V. Fox, Washington, D. C.:
SIR: It having been decided to succor Fort Sumter you have been
selected for this important duty. Accordingly you will take charge of
the transports in New York having the troops and supplies on board to
the entrance of Charleston Harbor, and endeavor, in the first instance,
to deliver the subsistence. If you are opposed in this you are directe
Page 236
236 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
to report the fact to the senior naval officer of the harbor, who will be
instructed by the Secretary of the Navy to use his entire force to open
a passage, when you will, if possible, effect an entrance and place both
troops and supplies in Fort Sumter.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
Washington, April 4, 1861.
Col. ID. D. TOMPKINS, A. Q. M. G., No. 6 & ate street, New York:
SIR: By direction of the Secretary of War you will charter such ves-
sels as Capt. 0-. V. Fox, the bearer of this, may designate; for such
time and with such supplies as he may indicate.
I am, sir, & c.,
L. THOMAS,
Adjutant- General.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
Washington, D. C., April 4, 1861.
IAeut. Col. HENRY L. SCOTT, A. D. C., New York:
SIR: This letter will be handed to you by Capt. G. V. Fox ex-officer
of the Navy, and a gentleman of high standing, as well as p~ssessed of
extraordinary nautical ability. He is charged by high authority here
with the command of an expedition, under cover of certain ships of war,
whose object is to re-enforce Fort Sumter.
To embark with Captain Fox you will cause a detachment of recruits,
say about two hundred, to be immediately organized at Fort Columbus,
with a competent number of officers, arms, ammunition, and subsist-
ence. A large surplus of the latterindeed, as great as the vessels of
the expedition can takewith ether necessaries will b
augmente(l garrison of Fort Sumter. e needed for the
The subsistence and other supplies should be assorted like those
which were provided by you and Captain Ward of the Navy for a
former expedition. Consult Captain Fox and Ma~jor Eaton on the sub-
ject, and give all necessary orders in my name to fit out the expedition,
except that the hiring of vessels will be lelt to others.
Some fuel must be shipped. Oil, artillery implements, fuses, cordage,
slow-match, mechanical levers, and gins, & c., should also be put on
board.
Consult, also, if necessary, confidentially, Colonel Tompkins and Major
Thornton.
Respectfully, yours,
WJNFJEJ~D SCOTT.
No. 93.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 4, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 6.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to send herewith a report of the circum-
stances attending a firing yesterday afternoon by the batteries on Mor-
ris Island at a schooner bearing our flag, bound from Boston to Sava
Page 237
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 23.7
nah, which, erroneously mistaking the light-house off this harbor for
that of Tybee, and having failed to get a pilot, was entering the harbor.
The remarks made to me by Colonel Lamon, taken in connection with
the tenor of newspaper articles, have induced me, as stated in previous
communications, to believe that orders would soon be issued for my
abandoning this work. When the firing commenced some of my heaviest
gnus were concealed from their view by planking, and by the time the
battery was ready the firing had ceased. I then, acting in strict accord-
ance with the spirit and wording of the orders of the War Department,
as communicated to me in the letter from the Secretary of War dated
February 23, 1861, determined not to commence firing until I had sent
to the vessel and investigated the circumstances.
The accompanying report presents them. Invested by a force so su-
perior that a collision would, in all probability, terminate in the destine-
tion of our force before relief could reach us, with only a few days pro-
visions on hand, and with a scanty supply of ammunition, as will be
seen by a reference to my letter of February 27, in hourly expectation
of receiving definite instructions from the War Department, and with
orders so explicit and peremptory as those I am acting under, I deeply
regret that I did not feel myself at liberty to resent the insult thus
offered to the flag of my beloved country.
I think that proper notification should be given to our merchant ves-
sels of the rigid instructions under which the commanders of these bat-
teries are acting; that they should be notified that they must, as soon
as -a shot is fired ahead of them, at once round to and communicate with
the batteries.
The authorities here are certainly blamable for not having constantly
vessels off to communicate instructions to those seeking entrance into
this harbor.
Captain Talbot is relieved, of con rse, by order No. 7, from duty at
this post. I avail myself of this opportunity of stating that he has been
zealous,intelligent, and active in the discharge of all his duties here,
so far as hi health permitted him to attempt their performance. I
sen(l him on with these dispatches, to give the department an oppor-
tunity, if deemed proper, to modify, in consequence of this unfortunate
affair, any order they may have sent to me. I will delay obedience
thereto until I have time to receive a telegram after Captain Talbots
having reported to the War Department.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]iiliajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
FORT SUMTER, April 3, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT AT~DERSON, First Artillery, U. S. Army,
Commanding Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor:
MAJOR: In obedience to your directions, we visited Cummings Point
and the schooner, bearing the United States flag, which was fired into
by the batteries on Morris Island, and respectfully present the follow-
ing statement concerning the affair:
The commanding officer on Morris island, Lieut. Col. W. G. De Saussure,
stated that a schooner with the United States flag at her peak endeav-
ored to enter the harbor this afternoon about 3 oclock; that in accord-
ance with his orders to prevent any vessel under that flag from enter-
ing the harbor, he had fired three shots across her bows, and this no
Page 238
238
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
causing her to heave to,he had fired at her, and had driven her out of the
harbor; that be thought one or two shots had taken effect, and that if he
had a boat that could live to get out to her he would send and see if she
were disabled, and inform Major Anderson at once, but that he had no
proper boat, as the schoouer was at auchor in a very rough place; that
the revenue cutter had gone out to examiue her condition. We ascer-
tajued the schoouer to be the Rhoda II. Shannon, Joseph Marts, master,
of Dorchester, N. J., bound from Boston to Savannah with a cargo of
ice, having left the former place on March 26. On account of unfavor-
able weather, the master had obtained but one observation, and that
was an imperfect one on yesterday. On his arrival off Charleston Bar,
supJ)osing himself to be off Tybee, and seeing a pilot-boat he directed
one of his men to hold the United States flag in the fore rigging as a
signal for a pilot. As none came, the flag was taken down in a few
minutes, and the master nudertook to bring his vessel into the harbor
without a pilot. He did not discover that he was not in Savannah liar.
bor until he had crossed the bar and had advanced some distance in the
harbor. As he was passing Morris Island, displaying no flag, a shot
was fired from a battery on shore across the bows of the schooner. The
master states that he thought they wished him to show his colors, and
that he displayed the United States flag at his peak. One or two shots
were then fired across the schooners bows, but he did not know what
to do or what the people on shore wished him to do that he kept the
vessel on her course until they fired at her, and one shot had gone
through the mainsail, about two feet above the boom, when he pat her
about and stood out to sea, anchoring his vessel in the Swash Channel,
just inside of the bar; that the batteries kept out firing at his vessel
for some time after he had turned to go out to sea.
The master of the schooner stated that before leaving Boston, he had
learned how affairs stood in Charleston Harbor. and that Fort Sumter
was to be given up in a few days; that they had established a new con-
federacy down South.
After satisfying ourselves that the vessel was uninjured, and as she
was lying in a very rough place, we advised the master to move his
vesseleither to stand out to sea and go on to Savannah or to come
into the harbor and anchor.
On our return we stopped at Cummings Point, and stated the facts to
Lieutenant-Colonel Dc Saussure. He said that the vessel would not be
molested if she came into the harbor.
The schooner weighed anchor a short time after we left, and stood in
towards Morris Island for some distance, but finally turned about and
went to sea.
Respectfully submitted.
T. SEYMOUR,
Captain, First Artillery.
G. W. SNYDER,
Lieutenant of Engineers.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 4, 1861.
His Excellency Governor PIOJiENS, Charleston, S. C.:
GOVERNOR: I have the honor respectfully to request that you will
be pleased to issne such instructions as will enable Bvt. Captain Talbot,
recently promoted, to report himself at Washington City, in compliance
with orders he has received
Page 239
ChAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. 239
Lieutenant Snyder is directed to give your excellency a detail of
the statement made to him yesterday by the captain of tne schooner
which was fired upon by the batteries on Morris Island. I regret very
much that there were no boats to warn her, or to give her instructions
as to the course of conduct she would have to pursue in entering the
harbor, and I regret, too, that the firing was continued after she had
turned and was attempting to leave the harbor. Believing that the
fortunate issue of this affair, without injury or loss of life, was provi-
dential, and still hoping that God will so direct the counsels of all in
authority that we shall soon be relieved from our unpleasant position,
I have the honor to remain, with sincere regard, your obedient
servant,
ZROBT. ANDEI~SON,
Jiiliajor, U. S~. Army, Commanding.
FORT SUMTER
General Jos. G. TOTTEN, , S. C., April 4 1861
Chief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. U.:
GENERAL: The permit for my men* to leave did not arrive yesterday,
and I have put them at work again until it does arrive.
Yesterday, at about 2 oclock, the batteries on Morris Island com-
inenced firing at a schooner that was entering the harbor when she was
about up with the channel buoy (channel buoy No.3, Coast Survey Chart of
1858), or about one mile from this fort.
The first shots were fired in front of her, and the subsequent ones
directly at her. The schooner hoisted the American flag. After receiv-
ing a few shots she turned about to run out through the Swash Channel.
After a few more shots she lowered the American flag, but stood on her
course until nearly or quite out of range of the guns of the batteries,
when she came to and anchored. The batteries on Morris Island con-
tinued firing at herat least, one of them diduntil she anchored.
Major Anderson sent a boat with Captain Seymour and Lieutenant
Snyder to ask the reasons for the firing from the commanding officer on
Morris Island, and also to obtain permission to board the vessel and
ascertain her condition, object of visit, & c.
The main points of the reports of these officers upon their return were,
that the officer in command on Morris Island, Colonel Wilmot Dc Sans-
sure, acted by orders from his Government, one of which was to force
a vessel to show her colors by firing across her bows, and another to
fire on any vessel attempting to enter with the American flag flying.
The vessel was ascertained to be the Rhoda II. Shannon, from Bos-
ton to Savannah, loaded with ice. She was a schooner of 180 tons
burden.
Her captain was an ignorant man, and, owing to thick weather and
making a mistake in his reckoning, mistook this harbor for the one to
which he was bound. He did not know what they wanted him to do.
None of the shots struck his vessel, and only one struck anything
about the vessel, and that passed through one of his sails, about two
feet above the boom.
I obtained more important information through Lieutenant Snyder of
the channel batteries than I possessed before.
In the short time before this letter is to go I can only say that all the
Thirty discharged employ6s
Page 240
240 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CRAP. I.
guns on the channel side, commencing with No. 4, inclusive, are en bar-
bette, although well protected from our fire, and also from flank fire, by
high traverses. From No. 4 to No. 7, inclusive, 17 guns were seen, ap-
parently very heavy, most of them.
Capt. T. Talbot goes to Washington with dispatches. No supplies
came from the city yesterday.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Gaptain, Engineers.
P. S.The revenue cutter still lies off the left shoulder angle, and
during the firing ran up the Confederate flag and kept it flying.
J. G. F.
NAVY DEPARTMENT
Capt. SAMUEL MERGER, Washington, 4pr1 5, 1861.
Commanding U. ~ S. Powhatan, New York:
SIR: The United States steamers Powliatan, Pawnee, Pocahontas, and
Harriet Lane will compose a naval force, under your command, to be
sent to the vicinity of Charleston, S. C., for the purpose of aiding in
carrying out the objects of an expedition of which the War Department
has charge.
The primary object of the expedition is to provision Fort Sumter, for
which purpose the War iDepaffment will furnish the necessary trans-
ports. Should the authorities at Charleston permit the fort to be sup-
plied, no further particular service will be required of the force under
your command, and after being satisfied that supplies have been re-
ceived at the fort, the Powhatan, Pocahontas, and Harriet Lane will
return to New York, and the Pawnee to Washington.
Should the authorities at Charleston, however, refuse to permit or
attempt to prevent the vessel or vessels having supplies on board from
entering the harbor, or from peaceably proceeding to Fort Sumter, you
will protect the transports or boats of the expedition in the object of
their missiondisposing of your force in such manner as to open the
way for their ingress and afford, so far as practicable, security to the
men and boats, and repelling by force, if necessary, all obstructions to-
wards provisioning the fort and re-enforcing it; for in case of resistance
to the peaceable primary object of the expedition a re-enforcement of the
garrison will also be attempted. These purposes will be nuder the
supervision of the War Department, which has charge of the expedi-
tion. The expedition has been intrusted to Capt. G. V. Fox, with whom
you will put yourself in communication, and co-operate with him to ac-
complish and carry into effect its object.
You will leave New York with the Powhatan in time to be off Charles-
ton Bar, ten miles distant from and due east of the light-house, on the
morning of the 11th instant, there to await the arrival of the transport
or transports with troops and stores. The Pawnee and Pocahontas will
be ordered to join you there at the time mentioned, and also the Harriet
Lane, which latter vessel has been placed under the control of this De-
partment for this service.
On the termination of the expedition, whether it be peaceable or
otherwise, the several vessels under your command will return to th
Page 241
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 241
respective ports, as above directed, unless some unforeseen circumstance
should prevent.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
GJI)EON WELLES,
& cretary of the Navy.
No. 94.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 5,1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 8.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report everything still and quiet, and
to send herewith the report of Lieutenant Snyder, who I sent yesterday
with a short note and a verbal message to the governor of South Caro-
lina. No reply has been received to my note.
I cannot but think that Mr. Crawford has misunderstood what he has
heard in Washington, as II cannot think that the Government would
abandon, without instructions and without advice, a command which
has tried to do all its duty to our country.
I cannot but think that if the Government decides to do nothing
which can be construed into a recognition of the fact of the dissolution
of the Union, that it will, at all events, say to me that I must do the
best I can, and not compel me to do an act which will leave my motives
and actions liable to misconception~
I am sure that I shall not be left without instructions, even though
they may be confidential. After thirty odd years of service 1 (10 not
wish it to be said that I have treasonably abandoned a post and turned
over to unauthorized persons public property intrusted to my charge.
I am entitled to this act of justice at the hands of my Government, and
I feel confident that I shall not be (lisappointed. What to do with the
public property, and where to take my command, are questions to which
answers will, I hope, be at once returned. Unless we receive supplies
I shall be compelled to stay here without food, or to abandon this post
very early next week.
Confidently hoping that I shall receive ample instructions in time,
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANI)ERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Gommanding.
[Inclosure. I
FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 4, 1861.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
First Artillery, U. S. Army, Commanding Fort Sumter:
MAJOR: In compliance with your directions, I went, under a flag of
truce, to the city of Charleston, in company with Captain Talbot, and
h~td an interview with Governor Pickens and General Beauregard. In
the interview with the governor, Captain Talbot only being present,
I state(l all the circumstances connected with the visits of Captain Sey-
mour and myself to Cummings Point and the schooner Rhoda II. Shan-
non, which had been fired into l)y the batteries on Morris Island, on the
3d instant. I called his atteutioii to the fact that he had not complied
with his own proposition, to warn all vessels bearing the United States
flag not to enter the harbor. The governor replied that he and Gen-
eral Beauregard, with their staff officers, were standing on the piazza of
the Moultrie ilouse, on Sullivans Island, and saw the whole afihir, and
16 R
Page 242
242 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. 1.
that my statement corroborated entirely his own personal observation,
although it differed slightly from the report of Colonel De Saussure,
the commanding officer on Morris Island. The governor said that the
commander of the vessel whose duty it was to warn ve~sels not to enter
the harbor had left his post, and had reported that the weather was too
boisterous aH(l the sea too rough for him to go out to the schooner
Shannon that this cotuLnander had already been sent for, and would
be dismi~sed; that the commander of the cutter would be reprinianded
for not going out and examining whether the Shannon were disabled;
and that peremptory orders had been sent to Morris Island to stop this
random firing.
The governor also said that if Major Anderson deemed it his duty
to sen(l out, under nnfavorable circumstances. anti examine the condi-
tion of the schooner Shannon, it was doubly theirs, imposed by unman-
ity, and also by the commercial interest of their harbor.
General Beauregard was invited in, and I repeated what I had said
to Governor Pickens to hWm. The general replied in the same terms.
as the governor, adding that the practice firing on Morris Island would
take place at particular hours.
There was an objection made to Captain Talbot leaving Fort Sumter
for Washington, but this was finally overruled and the captain allowed
to depart. The governor said that orders had been received from 1~Iont-
gomnery not to allow any man in the ranks, or any laborers, to leave Fort
Sumter, and not to allow M~tjor Anderson to obtain supplies in Charles-
ton; that Mr. Crawford, a commissioner from the Confederate States,
now in Washington, had sent a dispatch to him stating that he was
authorized to say that no attempt would be ina(le to re-enforce Fort
Sumter with men or l)i.o~ ismous, but that Mr. Lincoln would not order
Major Anderson to withdi i~v frommi Fort Sumter, and would leave him
to act for himself; also a(l\ 151li~ the governor not to allow any supplies
to be sent from the city to 11 ort Sumter.
I called the attention of both General Beauregard and Governor
Pickens to the schooner lying neir time left flank of Fort Sumter. They
sai(i they knew nothing ot hei, but would sen(l and ascertain, anti direct
liner to move further fromn the fort. Governor Pickens remarke(I that as
they were now actimig under the authority of the Confederate States he
had consulted ~vith General Beauregard, who was now in command of
the trooj)s stationed here.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. W. SNYDER,
First Licut. of Engineers, U. S. Army.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 5,1861.
General Jos. G. TOTTEN,
(Thief En qineer b. S. A., Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I wrote yesterday by Captain Talbot, who left here mit
12 in., as bearer of (lisi) itches fiom Major Andersoim to the Government.
Lieutenant Snyder ae Oifll) inied him to the city as bearer of a communi-
cation to the governom and G neral Beauregard. relating to time firing
npon the schoomier Rhod II Shannon, amid to the piesence Of the
revenue cutter so near the wmlls of this fort. The result of this mission,
so far as I un(leistaii(1 it. is this: First, Captain Talbot, after some con-
sultation, was permitted by the authorities to ])roceed to \Vashington.
Second, it was stated that. no Engineer employe or enlisted man woul
Page 243
CeAr. I.] CORJiESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 243
be permitted to leave the fort nntil the command was withdrawn, ili
consequence of a dispatch from Commissioner Crawford, at Washington,
to the effect that I am authorized to say that this Government will not
undertake to supply Fort Sumter without notice to ~ou [Governor
Pickens]. My opinion is that the President has not the courage to exe-
cute the order agreed on in Cabinet for the evacuation of the fort, but
that he intends to shift the responsibility npon Major Anderson by
suffering him to be starved ont; and that no more supplies for the fort
could come from the city. Third, that more stringent orders would be
given to regulate the firing from the batteries and to restrict random
firing, not, however, changing in the least the order to fire on any vessel
attempting to force her way in after being warned oIL Fourth, dis-
claiming any knowledge of the revenue cutter so near the walls, and
expressing a determination to investigate the subject.
In returning from the city Lieutenant Snyder called for the mail at
Fort Johnson, where he also took on board a small supply of beef and
cabbages, which had come from the city the day before, too late for our
boat. Soon after the return of the boat from town, the cutter moved her
anchorage to a position about four hundred yards from the left shoulder
angle. My force is now at work putting up splinter-proof traverses on
the terre-plein.
My supplies of provisions that I laid in before the commencement of
the investment were yesterday reduced to one half-barrel of cornmeal
one-seventh barrel of grits, and eleven codfish. Everything else that is
necessary for the support of the Engineer force is drawn from the scanty
stores of the command.
There appears to be no unusual activity in the surrounding batteries,
owing, perhaps, to a high wind which has prevailed for three days.
I irwlose a sketch of the batteries and number of guns, based upon
the observations of Lieutenant Snyder. Captain Talbot can give you
any detailed information that may be required.
I have the honor to be, very respectftmlly, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTEt~,
C1aptain, Engineers.
[Inclosure on next page.
Page 244
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. L
[Thclosure.1
CUMMiNGS POINT
2 HEAVY GUNS
SPACE FOR OTHERS
H. ~AINI/~
6
N?7
2 HEAVY GU~t
STAR OF THE WEST
N98 BATTEE~Y
2 HEAVY GUNS
N? 9
2 HEAVY GUNS
6
2 CARRIAGES
N?IO
424 PDRS
N? II
0 GUNS
PLACED HIGH
MORIilS L 8EACON
24
Page 245
I.] 245
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, April 6, 1861.
Capt. THEO. TALBOT, Assista~~t Adjutant- General:
SIR: You will proceed directly to Charleston, S. C., and if on your
arrival there the flag of the Ui~ited States shall be flying over Fort
Sumter, and the fort shall not have been attacked, you will procure an
interview with Governor Pickens, and read to him as follows:
I am directed by the President of the United States to notify [you] to expect an
attempt will be made to suppiy Fort Sumter with provisions oniy, and that if such
attempt be not resisted, no effort to throw in provisions, arms, or ammunition will be
made without further notice or in case of an attack upon the fort.
After you shall have read this to Governor Pickens, deliver to him
the copy of it herein inclosed, and retain this letter yourself.
But if on your arrival at Charleston you shall ascertain that Fort
Sumter shall have been already evacuated or surrendered by the United
States force, you will seek no interview with Governor Pickens, but re-
turn here forthwith.
Respectfully, SIMON CAMERON,
& cretary of War.
No. 95.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 6, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 9.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. A.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that everything is quiet around
us. The schooner (she is a revenue cutter) reported as lying near our
work still remains there. One of her officers boarded our mail-boat
yesterday, and said that his orders were not to permit any boat to pass
from Fort Sumter to the shore without bearing a white flag. I do not
believe that General Beauregard has either placed her where she is or
given her those orders, and I have written to him to-day in reference
to it.
A mortar battery near Mount Pleasant is firing shells this morning.
I have also called the generals attention to that firing, as some of the
shells have burst nearer to 115 than is safe. The truth is that the sooner
we are out of this harbor the better. our flag runs an hourly risk of
being insulted, and my hands are tied by my orders, and if that was
not the case, I have not the power to protect it. God grant that neither
I nor any other officer of our Army may be again placed in a position of
such niortification and humiliation.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
New York, April 6, 1861.
Lient. CHARLES B. WooDs,
Ninth Infantry, Act. Supt. East. Dept., R. S., Fort Columbus, iN. Y.:
SIR: The General-in-Chief desires that two hundred recruits from
Fort Columbus be at once organized into two companies, and held in
readiness for embarkation on Monday next, the 8th instant
Page 246
246 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
A proper proportion of non-commissioned officers will be included in
the detachment, which must be fully snpplied with arms, ammunition,
and subsistence.
First Lient. Edward McK. Hudson, Fourth Artillery, First Lient. R
0. Tyler, Third Artillery, and Second Lient. C. XV. Thomas, First In-
fantry, are assigned to duty with the recruits.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
fl. L. SCOTT,
Lieutenant- Colonel and A. D. C., Act. Adjt. Gen.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 6, 1861.
General Jo~. G. TOTTEN,
Chief Engineer U. ~. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have nothing new to communicate this morning con-
nected with the batteries on Morris Island or the other batteries of which
I have before written. Nothing appears to be doing except making the
necessary repairs to embrasures, parapets, & c.
A mortar battery situated on the shore a little to the east of Mount
Pleasant, commenced practicing yesterday and this morning, throwing
the shells very near this fort. It is situated about 13 degrees to the
east of north, on a line drawn from the center of this work. This bat-
tery, with the one on Sullivans Island, the two on Morris Island, and
the one on James Island, will enable the besiegers to reach every part
of this work with their shells. Against these the casemates must prove
the principal protection, for, with the exception of the splinter-proof
traverses formed of the gun carriages, I have not enough timber or sand
bags to form shell-proof shelters on the terre-plein. The revenne cntter
(former buoy-tender) lies in the same position. The only supplies re-
ceived yesterday were some vegetables that came from the city to Fort
Johnson two days before. None came from the city. I received yester-
terday General Orders Kos. 6 and 7. The mail contiunes to be delivered
regularly.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
61aptain, Engineers.
FORT SUMTER, S. C, April 6, 1861.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
DEAR GENERAL: I deem it my duty to call your attention to the
fact that some of the shells tired this morning from the mortar battery
at Mount Pleasant have exploded so near this work as to render the
further firing dangerons to the occupants of this fort unless the direc-
tion of the mortar is changed. I hope, therefore, that, to guard against
the possibility of such an event (one, I know, that you would never
cease to regret), you will issue such orders as are proper in the case. I
think it as well, too, to mention another thing which occurred yesterday
and has annoyed us. You know that since January 14, I have, in ac-
cordance with a suggestion from and an arrangement made by his excel-
lency Governor Pickens, been sending my mails to and receiving them
from Fort Jackson about 12 oclock daily. Although I did not deem it
necessary to (10 so, I have always had a white flag in the boat. As she
is dispatched, however, in accordance with the instructions of the ex-
ecutive, and is (the whole distance) in view of and under protection o
Page 247
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 247
the guns of this fort and of Fort Johnson, the case does not really require
the use of that flag. Nothing has ever been said about it until yester-
day, wliei on its return from Fort Johnson with my mail she was stopped
by a row-boat from the vessel which remains anchored off the left flank
of this fort (the one about which Lieutenant Snyder spoke to his excel-
lency and yourself, and of which you said you knew nothing), and an
officer in charge told my men that his orders were not to let any boat
go from Fort Sumter to the shore without a white flag and that he must
raise it. I do not believe that you have given these orders, an(l I am
unwilling that my officers shall leave here, as we hope to do in a few
days, under the impression that you have either had that vessel placed
so much nearer to us than any vessel ha.s ever beeii anchored before or
given her such orders. I have never regarde(l myself as being in a hos-
tile attitude towards the inhabitants of South Carolina, and have been
very l)articular in treating every one who has api)roached me or with
whom I have had any intercourse with the greatest civility and courtesy.
I hope that you will at once give your attention to both these matters,
and I most earnestly hope that nothing will ever occur to alter, in the
least, the high regard and esteem I have for so many years entertained
for you.
I am, dear general, yours, very truly,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Ifujor, U. S. Army, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 7, 186L
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
Fort Sumter, Charleston Iliarbor, S. C.:
DEAR MAJOR: Your letter dated yesterday was received by me this
moruin~ aIl(l I reoret to learn that the firing from the mortar battery
yesterday was so directed as to render the explosion of the shells dan-
gerous to the occupants of Fort Sumter. The attention of the officer
in co nlnan(l of the battery was called to the manner of his firing yester-
day, and orders will be sent to him to-day not to practice again in the
same direction.
In regard to the vessel lying near Foft Sumter, orders were given by
me, as early as the 4th instant, for its removal to some other point, and
if it has not been done steps will be taken to have it removed forthwith.
The orders to hail boats passing to and from Fort Sumter without a
white. flag was no~ intended by me t.o apply to your mail-boat at 12 in.,
and orders will be given to the proper officers to allow it to l)~55 as here-
tofore. Let me assure von ,.major, that nothing shall be wanting on my
part to preserve the friendly relations and impressions which have ex-
isted between us for so many years.
I am, ma very truly, yours,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
No; 96.] - FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 7, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 13.)
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that we do not see any work
going on around us. There was more activity displayed by the guard
Page 248
248 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CTIAP.i.
boats last night than has been clone for some time. Three of them
remained at anchor all night and until after reveille this morning, near
the junction of the three channels. You will see by the inclosed letter,
just received from Brigadier-General Beauregard that we shall not get
any more supplies from the city of Charleston. I hope that they will
continne to let us have onr mails as long as we remain. I am glad to
be enabled to report that there have been no new cases of dysentery,
and that the sick-list only embraces six cases to-day.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
]Iifajor, First Artillery, Commanding.
[Inclosure.l
HEADQUARTERS OF THE PROVISIONAL ARMY, C. S.,
Charleston, S. C., April 7, 1801.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
Commanding at Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor S. C.:
Sin: In compliance with orders from the Confederate Government at
Montgomery, I have the honor to inform you that, in consequence of
the delays and apparent vacillations of the United States Government
at Washington relative to the evacuation of Fort Sumter, no further
communications for the purposes of suJ)ply with this city from the fort
and with the fort from this city will be permitted from and after this
day. The mails, however, will continue to be transmitted as heretofore,
until further instructions from the Confederate Government.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding..
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
New York, April 8, 1861.
First Lieut. EDWARD McK. HUDSON,
Fourth Artillery, Comdg. U. S. troops on the steamer Baltic:
SIR: I am instructed by the General-in-Chief to say to you that the
destination of the two hundred recruits embarked on the steamer Baltic
is Fort Sumter, and that Capt. G. V. Fox, ex-officer of the Navy, and a
genti eman of high standing, as well as possessed of extraordinary nanti-
cal ability, has been charged by high anthority in Washington with the
command of the expedition, under cover of certain ships of war.
You will accordingly be governed by the instructions of Captain Fox.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedieut servant,
H. L SCOTT
Lieutenant4iolonel and A. D. C.,
Act. Adjt. Gen.
HDQRS. PROY. FORCES CONFEDERATE STATES,
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON, Charleston, S. C., April 9, 1861.
61ommanding at Fort Sumter, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: Your favor of this day has just been received, through Captain
James.* The private letters you refer to in the mail of yesterday were
* See Anderson to Thomas, April 10, 1861, p.249; and for copies of Andersons and
Fosters dispatches of April 8, seized by the Confederate authorities, see Pickens to
Walker, April 9, 1861, pp. 292294
Page 249
CHAP. Ir COT~RESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION.
249
sent to their destination, but the public ones were sent to the Confed-
erate Government at Montgomery, in return for the ~treachery of Mr.
Fox who has been reported to have violated his word given to Gov-
ernor Pickens before visiting Fort Sumter.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
No. 99.] FORT SIJMTEn, S. C., April 10, 1861.
(Received A. G. 0., April 26.)
Col. L. Tuo~IAs, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the man who has charge
of our mails on his return trip yesterday bronght no mail, but a com-
in utnication from General Beauregard, herewith inclosed. I immediately
sent him back with a note to the commanding officer of Fort Johnson,
requesting him to return our mail bag, which was done.
The South Carolinians continued all day yesterday the vigorous
prosecution of the works mentioned in 97 and 98, and this morning shows
that the parapets and traverses have been both heightened and strength-
ened.
Last night the guard-boats, of which we saw eight on duty, were very
vigilant gnard~ng all the channels, and we see signal vessels very far
out beyond the bar. The garrisons of Castle Pinckney and Fort John-
son, and of the batteries on Morris Jsland, have been strengthened yes-
terday and this morning.
A detachment of about sixty horsenien was landed this morning at
Cummings Point.
This morning we see another gun, the fourth, in the new battery on
Sullivans Island. This baUery will bear directly upon any boat attempt-
ing to land stores at the left flank, and will, independently of the shower
of shells which will be thrown over our fort, soon drive us from our
barbette guns on both flanks. All we can do after that will be to use
the guns of the lower tier. We have breimd enough by using (as we
hove been doing for two days) but half rations to last until dinner time
on Friday.
My command is in fine sl)irits, but I see that the long confinement,
with the constant excitement, is telhno on them. None of us could
endure Iati~umng labor for any length of tnuc I shall direct all the
coma ani to sltcp to mght in the bomb l)roof
W~ ore busy constincting a traverse lo ouard the gate from the fire
of ti bittenes on Cummings Point, prparmg sinks inside, making
array ~ements for a hospital for the ~x ounded & c., placing the ammurii-
ticn in ~-ecure positions nuder the second tici of caseinates convenient
fbr use, & c.
We shall make every preparation for the attempted ]andin.g, and I
have already had the embrasurethe only one that can be usedcut
large enough to receive a barrel.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT AN.I)ERSON,
Major,. First Artillery, Commanding
Page 250
250 OPERATIONS IN CHARLBSTON HARBOI~, S. C. [CHAP. I.
Flnclositres.]
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL ARMY C S
Charleston, S. C., April 8, 18618
p.m.
Maj. ROBERT ANDERSON,
Co nmanding at Fort Sumter, Charleston Harbor, S. C.:
SIR: I have the honor to inforill you that from and after this day rio
mails will be allowed to go to or conie from Fort Sumter until further
instructions from the Confederate Government at Montgomery.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
Brigadier- General, L1ommanding.
FORT SUMTER, S. C., A~ril 9, 1861 c~ 15 p m.
General G. T. BEAIJREO-ARD, Charleston, ~ C.:
GENERAL: I have the honor .to acknowlcdg3 to ~have this moment
receive(1 your favor of 8 p. in., Ai ril 8, notifying me that from and after
that date no mails would be allowed to go to or come from Fort Sumter,
and respectfully request that you would be pleased to have the mail or
mails which were forwarded prior to the receipt of your notification
returned to this post.
Confidently hoping that you will comply with the request,
I am, general, very respectfully, your obeuient servant,
ROBERT ANI)ERSOX,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
No. 100.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April ii, 1861.
(Receix C(l A & 0., April 26.)
Col. L. Trioi~rAS, Adjutant-General, Washington 1) (V
COLONEL: Although not permitted to scud off my daily report, I shall
continue, as long as I can, to prepare them, so that if an opportunity is
afforded me I shall have them ready. I have the honor to veport that
everything around us shows that these i)eople ire expecting the arrival
of a hostile force, and they are making most jmnlic~ou~ irrange~nentsto
prevent the landing of any supplies at this toi I . sterday and this
mormug the garrisons of the works around us were re-enforced. Last
night rockets were thrown up from Charleston and Mou Lit Pleasant,
about 12 oclock, and a row-boat, bearing a red light., caine down from
Charleston and commun nicated xvitli the guard-boats, consisting, as far
as we could observe of seven steamers and four schooners, and returned
to the city about four this morning.
We see the iron floating battery this morning at the west end of Sn]-
livans Island, admirab]y i)laced for pouring a lunr(leIous lire upon any
vessel attempting to lay alongside our left flank and ulso well situated
for enfilading the flanks of this work. With all our xx rtchfmulnessand
I think no garrison was ever blessed with a more vv~1lant set of amen
none observed the bringing down of that raft They have also roni-
menced another battery, say about eighty yards honi the west end of
Sullivan isiand.
They appear to be determined to get as l)Owcrfnl a fire as possible on
the point designated as the one where prox usuous aic inten(le(l to l)e
landed, and, had they been iii possession of tlmc inform ition comitained iii
your letter of the 4th instant, they could not hax c made better arrange
Page 251
OnAr. I.)
251
CORnE~POI~DETNCE, ETC.UNI OK.
ments than those they have made, and are making, to thwart the con-
templated scheme.
The least dangerous course would be for the officer in charge of the
supply vessel, after passing Cummings Point, to run to our wharf and
round to, alongside the west face of it. He would thus avoid, whilst
nuloading, the fire from Fort Monitrie, the batteries at the west end of
Sullivans Island, and of the iron floating battery, only being exposed
to the fire of the batteries in this end of Cummings Point and of Fort
Johnson, and at low tide the vessels woald be protected by the wharf
from the fire from Cummings Point It would be hot work unloading her,
but not so bad as at the other place. We nearly finished last night a
traverse, designed to protect our right flank barbette guns from the
enfilading fire of the guns on the west end of Sullivans Island, and we
shall, God willing, strengthen that one, and complete the traverse to
the left of the main entrance. The officers and men, thank God, are in
pretty good health; and, although feeling aware of the danger of their
position, have greater anxiety about the fate of those whom they expect
to come to their succor than they entertain for themselves.
I am, colommel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery~ Commanding.
WASHINGTON, B. C., April 12, 1861.
Hon. SIMON CAMERON, Secretary of War:
Sin: I have the honor to report that in obedience to your instructions,
dated April 6, 1861, I left Washington on the evening of the same day
in company with Mr. It. S. Chew, and arrived at Charleston, S. C., on
the evening of the 8th instant. Immediately after my arrival I visited
Governor Pickens, and, having informed him of the nature of my written
instructions, stated that Mr. Chew had requested me to ask his cx.
cellency for an interview at his earliest convenience. The governor
replied that he would receive Mr. Chew at once and shortly after I ac-
companied Mr. Chew to the governors quarters. Mr. Chew read to the
governor, in my presence, a message from the President of the United
States, handing him a copy of the same, which was compared by the
governor. The governor stated to Mr. Chew that, South Carolina hav-
ing ratified the constit ution of the Confederate States, General Beaure-
gard now had charge of military afihirs in the vicinity of Charleston, and
that, as General Beauregard was near at hand, he would desire to have
him present at the interview. To this Mr. Chew assented, and General
Beauregard having been called into the room, the governor read and
handed to him the copy of the message which he had just received.
In compliance with your verbal instructiomis, I asked Governor Pickens
if I would be permitted to proceed to Fort Sumter for the purpose of
remaining on duty at that post. The governor refrrred me to General
Beauregard for an answer, by whom the request was peremptorily refused.
I then asked if I would be I)ermitted to hold communication with Major
Anderson at Fort Sumter, with the distinct understanding that after
such interview I should immediately return to Charleston. This was
also refused, General Beauregard remarking that no communication
whatever would be permitted with Major Anderson, except to convey
an order for the evacuation of the fort, such being the instructions re-
ceived from Montgomery
Page 252
252 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
I then informed Governor Pickens and General Beauregard that I had
no further official business to transact with them, and that it was the
desire of Mr. Chew and myself to start North that night. Both replied
that there would be no obstruction to our departure, and each of them
detailed an officer of the staff to escort us to the railroad depot. We
left Charleston at 11 oclock p. m. on the 8th in~tant, arriving here this
morning. We were detaiued several hours at Florence, S. C., and at
Richmond, Va., in consequence of the railway trains failing to connect at
those places. I brought back with me the sealed dispatch for Major
Anderson, intrusted to my care by the President.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THEG. TALBOT,
Brevet 61apta.in, Assistant Adjutant- General, U. S. Army.
CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.,
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Charleston, December 28, 1860.
Hon. ID. F. JAMISON, President of the Convention:
Sm: As the Convention sent for me yesterday, to be informed upon im-
portant business, I take the bccasion to say that, under my order, Castle
Pinckney was taken last evening, and the United States flag hauled
dawn an(l the Palmetto banner run up in its place. And I also ordered
a detach ruent from an artillery regiment to occupy Sullivans Island;
and if it could be done without any immediate danger from mines, or
too great loss of life, to take Fort Moultrie and to run up the Palmetto
flag, and put the guns in immediate preparation for defense. I have
now full possession of those two forts. I considered the evacuation of
Fort Moultrie, under all the circumstances, a direct violation of the dis-
tinct understanding between the authorities of the Government at Wash
ington and those who were authorized to act on the part of the State,
and bringing on a state of war.
I therefore thought it due to the safety of the State that I should
take the steps I have. I hope there is no immediate danger of further
aggression for the present.
Respectfully,
F. W. PICKENS.
[WASHINGTON], January 2, 1861.
Hon. M. L. BONHAM, Charleston, S. C.:
Holt succeeds Floyd. It means war. Cut off supplies from Ander-
son and take Sumter soon as possible.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
WASHINGTON, January 4, 1861.
A. N. KIMBALL, Ja& c~on, Miss.:
No troops have been sent to Charleston nor will be while I am a mem-
ber of the Cabinet.
J. THOMPSON.
* Correspondence between the Confederate and the United States authorities will
be found in the Union Correspondence, & e
Page 253
CHAP. I.]
253
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE.
[JANUARY 5 (i), 1861.] Saturday8 oclock a. m.
Hon. JOHN ROBERTSON,
Commissioner from Virginia, Charleston:
Presidents reply: Brooklyn not for South Carolina. On errand of
mercy and ~
JOHN TYLER.
WASHINGTON, Tuesday morning, January 8, 1861.
His Excellency F. W. PICKENS,
Governor of Soath Carolina, Charleston, S. C.:
The Star of the West sailed from New York on Sunday with Govern-
ment troops and provisions, it is said her destination is Charleston.
if so, she may be hourly expected off the harbor of Charleston.
LOUIS T. WIG-FALL.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR,
January 29, 1861.
HENRY A. MULLINGS, Esq.,
Commanding Cutter William Aiken:
SIR: You will proceed, with the cutter William Aiken, off Ship
Channel, and when a friendly vessel comes over the bar you will make
a signal, running your flag up to the mainmast head for a few moments,
and then haul it down. If an unfriendly vessel, you will dip your flag
at mainmast head, but be sure to keep it flying. Every vessel should
be looked into, or partially examined, to see that no unnecessary number
of men are on board. The private signal has been arranged with the
Nashville and Columbia. For the present, the former will show a flag
of white and red from mainmast head; the latter, her private signal,
with the letter M in the center. The Adger will show from her main-
mast head a blue flag, with letter M. If your boat should be detained
or captured by an unfriendly vessel, she (the unfriendly vessel) will be
prevented from entering, by the battery east of Fort Moultrie, and by
Fort Moultrie.
Very respectfully, JAMES H. NORTH,
Captain, Commanding.
[FEBRUARY 2, 1861.]
Governor PICKENS, C4arleston, S. C.:
Communication made to President last evening. It elaborates the
matter contained in instructions, and incloses the original demand. Cab-
inet meets to-day. I shall leave on Monday evening.
President, I think, will refer everything to Congress, and make liis
reply in his message. Letter from the Baron received. Ingrahams
resignation will go in to-day. ~. ~. HAYNE.
FEBRUARY 7, 1861.
Judge J. ROBERTSON, Montgomery, Ala.:
Hayne has returned. Prevent, if possible, collision. It is of great
importance to results here.
J. TYLER
Page 254
254 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [ChAP. I.
[FEBRUARY 7, 1861.]
Governor PiCKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
Can my voice reach you? If so, do not attack Fort Sumter. You
know my sincerity. The Yirgiuia delegatiou here earnestly nnite.
JOHN TYLER.
[WASHrNGTON], Saturday, February 9, 1861.
Gov. F. W. PICKENS, Charleston, S. C.
The President says the letter to Colonel Hayne was designed to be
both resl)ecttul and kind; that he rea(1 it, so considered it, aud if it
seeme~I otherwise he deeply regrets it.
The President desired me to say this to you. He complained much of
Colouel llayne%~ last letter, as Mr. bit in his letter had no unkind
intention, b at the contrary. lie manifested great solicitude on this
point.
Will you give me au assurance that no attack Will be made ou Fort
Sumter by South Carolina, provided the President will give a like
assurance and pledge that no re-enforcement shall be furnished or
attempted by the Government here?
JOHN TYLER.
FEBRUARY 12, 1861.
No. 5.A RESOLUTION in relation to the occupation of the forts and arsenals, & e.
Resolved by the Congress of the Confederate States of America, That this Government
takes under its charge the questions and difficulties now existing between the several
States of this Confederacy and the Government of the United States of America, relat-
ing to. the occupation of forts, arsenals, navy-yards, and other public establishments;
and that the President of the Con0ress he directed to communicate this resolution to
the several States of this Confederacy, through the respective governors thereof.
Adopted Fehrnary 12, 18(51.
HEADQUARTERS, CHARLESTON, S. C.,
Hon. TIOWELL COBB, February 13, 1861.
Pre~ident of the Provisional Congress:
SIR: I had the honor last night to acknowledge the receipt of your
telegram, in which you informed me that the Provisional Congress had
taken charge of the questions and difficulties now existing between
the several States of the Confederacy and the Government of the United
States.* In the reply made to you by telegraph I stated that I would
communicate with you by letter, and added to it the expression of the
urgent conviction of the authorities of the State as to the period in
which the reduction of Fort Sumter should be complete. And, in the
first place, let me offer you my warm congratulations upon the success
which has attended you in the organization of the Provisional Govern-
mnent. May it be equal to the emergency of every occasion which can
arise, and be to each State in this new confederation the efficient guard.
ian of those rights, which, ignored or usurped nuder the former confed-
eration, has united these States in the bonds of a new political compact.
In taking charge of the questions and difficulties which relate to
Fort Sumter, it will be necessary for the Congress to apprehend rightly
their present position. The force of circumstances devolved upon this
* See resolution, adopted February 12, p.254
Page 255
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDEPATE. 255
State an obligation to provide the measures necessary for its defense~
It has been obliged to act under the guidance of its own counsels,.but
has never forgotten the interest of its sister. States in every measure
.which it was about to provide for its own safety. And I beg to assure
you that, in all which it may at any time do, a regard for the welthre
and wishes of its sister States in the new confederation will exercise a
marked influence upon the conduct of this State.
The questions and difficulties of Fort Sumter can scarcely be fully
appreciated, unless by those who have been familiar with its progress
from the commencement of its history to the present moment. If it
shall appear otherwise, it has, nevertheless, been the constant, anxious
(lesire of this State to obtain the possession of a fort which, held by the
United States, afi~cted its dignity and safetyq without a collision, which
would involve the loss of life. To secure this end every form of nego-
tiatioii which could be adopted, in consistency with the dignity of the
State, or had the promise or seeming of success, has been honestly at-
teml)ted. To all of these attempts there has been but one result: A
refusal in all cases, positive and unqualified, varied only as to the reasons
which were set forth for its justification, has followed each demand.
Amid now the conviction is presented to the State, derived from the most
calm and deliberate consideration of the whole matter, that in this l)er-
sistent refusal of the President of the United States is involved a denial
of tIme rightful independence of the State of South Carolina.
The questions and difficulties, therefore, of Fort Sumter, comprehend
now, as you will perceive, considerations which are political as well a~
military; and it would scarcely be considered that an undue estimate
was made of the former if they were said to be as important as the
latter. The establishment of them, moreover, is of the utmost conse-
quence to every State which has united with this State in the bonds
of a new confederation. The State has held its right to the possession
of Fort Sumter to be the (lirect and necessary consequence of its right,
as a sovereign State, to have the control of a muilitary post within its
limits, which post, dnring the period of the political connection of the
State with the other States, was held by the United States for the pro-
tection of South Carolina because South Carolina was a part of the
United States, and being so, npou the United States was devolved the
obligation to provide that defense for this State. With time termination
of the political connection between South Carolina and the United
States the obligation of the United States to defend that State ceased,
unless that State itself was time property of the United States. If the
State was an independent power the rightful control within its limits
of a military post, which involved its dignity and affectnd its safety, was
and is recognized by the plainest rules of public law. The denial, there-
fore, of the right of the State to have possession of the fort was, in fact,
a denial of its independence. Nor has there been even a colorable i)re-
text for a consistency of that possession by the United States with the
independence of the State, since the President authorized the distinct
avowal that it was held as a military post. The sole use of it as a mmdli-
tary post is in the control (called by the President the protection) it gives
to the United States of the harbor of Charleston. The assertion, then,
as you will I)erceive, of the rightful independence of the State carries
necessarily with it the right to reduce Fort Sumter into its owim posses-
sion, which is held, as it is, by a hostile power, for an unfriendly purpose.
It is a hostile power when it asserts a right to exercise a dominion over
the State, which that State refuses to recognize as consistent with its
own dignity and safety; and its purpose cannot be otherwise than uu
Page 256
256
OPERATiONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. T.
friendly when it can only be to enable the United States to commit to
its military subordinates a I)OXVC~ to refuse to permit any vessels to
pass within range of the guns which are within its walls. It has,
therefore, been c6nsidered at once proper and necessary for this State~
to take possession of that fort as soon as the measures necessary for
the accomplishment of that result can be completed, and it is now ex-
pected that within a short time all the arrangements will be perfected
necessary for its certain and speedy reduction. With the completion of
these preparations and the assurance they afford of success, it has ever
been the purp~e of the authorities of this State to take this fort into
the possession of the State. The right to do so has been considered the
right of the State, and the resources of the State have been considered
equal to the exercise of that right.
Whatever may be the mode in which the Congress will take charge of
these questions and ~ I trust that it is considered that in
the solution of them you will regard the position which the State of
South Carolina now occuyies in relation to them. That position is
marked by these propositons: That the right to have possession of the
fort is a right incident to the independence (she) the State has asserted;
that, to obtain possession of the fort, she has exhausted all modes which,
consistently with her dignity, ca.n be devised for a peaceful settlement;
that the failure of such attempts has remitted her to the necessity of
employing force to obtain that which should have been yielded from
considerations of justice and right, and that as soon as her preparations
are completed the reduction of that fort should be accomplished.
In the absence of any explanation or direction connected with the
telegram received from you, I have assumed that the policy and meas-
ures which have been adopted by this State, and which are in I)rosecu-
tion, will be recognized as proper. In the consideration of the question
of Fort Sumter, I have not been insensible of those matters which are
in their nature consequential, and have, I trust, weighed, with all the
care which befits the grave responsibilities of the case, the various cir-
cumstances which determine the time when this attack should be made.
With the best lights which I could procnre in guiding or assisting me,
I am perfectly satisfied that the welfare of the new confederation and
the necessities of the State require that Fort Sumter should be reduced
before the close of the present administration at Washington. If an
attack is delayed until after the inauguration of the incoming President
of the United States, the troops now gathered in the capital may then
be employed mu attempting that which, previous to that time, they could
not be spared to do. They dare not leave Washington now and do that
which then will be a measure too inviting to be resisted.
Mr. Lincoln cannot do more for this State than Mr. Buchanan has
done. Mr. Lincoln will not concede what Mr. Buchanan has refused.
Mr. Buchanan has placed his refusal upon grounds which determine his
reply to six States, as completely as to the same demand if made by a
single State.
If peace can be secured, it will be by the prompt use of the occasion,
when the forces of the United States are withheld from our harbor. If
war can be averted, it will be by making the capture of Fort Sumter a
fact accomplished during the continuance of the present administration,
and leaving to the incoming administration the question of an open dec-
laration of war. Such a declaration, separated, as it will be, from any
present act of hostilities during Mr. Lincolns administration, may be-
come to him a matter requiring consideration. That consideration will
not be expected of him,ifthe attack on the fort is made during his ad
Page 257
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCCONFEDERATE. 257
ministration, and becomes, therefore, as to him, an act of present hos-
tility. Mr. Buchanan cannot resist, because he has not the power. Mr.
Lincoln may not attack, because the cause of the quarrel will have been,
or may be, considered by him as past.
Upon this line of policy I have acted, and upon the adherence to it
may be found, I think, the most rational expectation of seeing that fort,
which is even now a source of danger to the State, restored to the pos-
session of the State without those consequences which I should most
deeply deplore. Should such consequences, nevertheless, follow from
an adherence to this policy, however much I would regret the occur-
rence, I should feel a perfect assurance that, in happening under such
circumstances, they demonstrated conclusively that, under the evil pas-
sions which blind and mislead those who govern the United States, no
human power could have averted the attempted overthrow of these
States; and that,in the exhibition of an ability by the States of the new
confederation to maintain their rights, there could be found satisfaction
in the reflection that their sufferings -at this time might purchase for
them quiet and happiness in time to come.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
F. W. PICKENS,
Governor of South Carolina.
[FEBRUARY l8Qi), 1861.]
Governor PICKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
Kiugman, known as Jon,~~ who corresponds with the Baltimore Sun,
and is considered reliable, in his letter of yesterday, says he has seen
and read a letter from a former inemberof Congress from South Caro-
lina, which assures him that Fort Sumter will be taken on or before the
4th of ~1arcl~, without reference to what the Montgomery government
may advise or order on the subject.~
This startles the President. Will you quiet him by your reply ~
The State commissioners will adjourn during the week. No result yet.
JOHN TYLER.
WASHINGTON, February 20, 1861.
His Excellency F. W. PICKENS:
Attempt to re-enforce Anderson by stealth at night in small boats
determined on.
Answer if received.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
FEBRUARY 21, 1861i to 7 p. m.
Governor PIC1~ENs, Charleston, S. C.:
The statement I gave you came directly from Chase.
I have not received your telegram as to what was reported by mem-
bers of Congress.
J. TYLER.
17 U
Page 258
258 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CrL~r. I.
CONGRESS, February 22, 1861.
Mr. Bartow, from the Committee on Military Affairs, reported the
following resolution, which was adopted, viz:
Resolved, That the President of the Confederate States be requested to communicate
in such manner as he may deem expedient, to the governors of South Carolina and
Florida the resolution of Congress concerning Forts Sumter and Pickens.
[Copy of the resolution above referred to.]
RESOLUTION in relation to the occupation of Forts Sumter and Pickens.
Resolved by the Confederate States of America in Congress assembled, That it is the sense
of this Congress that immediate steps should be taken to obtain possession of Forts
Sumter and Pickens, by the authority of this Government, either by negotiations or
force, as early as practicable, and that the President is hereby authorized to make all
necessary military preparations for carrying this resolution into effect.*
Passed February 15, 1861.
MONTGOMERY, ALA., February 23, 1861.
Maj. W. II. C. WHITING:
Mv DEAR SIR: You will proceed to Charleston and deliver the note
addressed to Governor Pickens, which yon will find herewith inclosed.
After conferring with him as to the time and mode of visiting the dif
ferent posts iu Charleston Bay, you will enter upon a reconnoissance of
the harbor of Charleston and its approaches. You will inspect the
various works in our possession and gain such knowledge as circumstances
will permit of Fort Sumter. In inspecting the works of the Confederate
States you will bear in mind the double relation they may have as works
of offense and of defense. You will make an inventory of the armament
and of the munitions at the forts and in store, noting particularly the
different qualities of cannon powder, as indicated by grain. Generally,
I desire you to perform all the du~es which devolve upon an engineer
charged with the examination of works, and the preparation for active
operations under circumstances such as those of Charleston, in this
emergency.
Very respectfully, truly, yours,
JEFFN DAVIS.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Charleston, S. 0., February 27, 1861.
The PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES, & C.,
]Jilioutgomery, Ala:
DEAR SIR: I received yours dated the 22d instant by Colonel Lucas,
inclosing the resolution of Congress expressly taking charge of the
military operations in the harbor of Charleston.t I have the fullest
confidence that you and Congress will do everything that may be due
to the honor and the rights of South Carolina.
Of course we feel that our honor and safety require that Fort Sumter
should be in our possession at the very earliest moment possible. We
have had great difficulties to contend with. By the extraordinary move
* Communicated ito governor of South Carolisa under date of February 22, but
letter of transmittal not found. See Governor Pickens letter of February 27, 1861,
p. 258.
t Resolutions approved February 15 and 22. See under last date
Page 259
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 259
ment of the United States garrison from Fort Moultrie we were suddenly
and unexpectedly precipitated into a situation which created the most
hostile feelings, and were at the outset involved in the most scientific
and expensive branches of modern warfare, where the most exact mili-
tary knowledge and experience were required.
I felt this, and therefore telegraphed you to come by Charleston on
yonr way to Mississippi, in order to consnlt on military matters, & c.
I again sent to the governor of Georgia for General Twiggs, and then
sent to you for a military engineer, as I desired the l~ghest military
approbation. Before taking the last s.tep I earnestly wished the best
military counsels.
Major Whiting is here, and thinks onr energies have been too much
directed to attacking Fort Sumter, and not enough to the defenses of
the harbor, so as to prevent re-enforcements, & c. You will see him,
and, of course, now we will await your orders and the directions of
Congress, as we feel that our cause is common, and that it is due to our
common government that we should do nothing to involve all the States
united in a permanent war by any separate act of ours, unless it shall
be necessary in self-defense or to prevent re-enforcements; but in the
mean time I will go on with the same activity as ever in preparing our
defenses and our men for any event that may arise.
We would desire to be informed if when thoroughly prepared to take
the fort shall we do so, or shall we await your order; and shall we
demand the surrender, or will that demand be made by you?
An answer to this by telegram is desired.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. W. PICKENS.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 1, 1861.
Gov. F. W. PIOKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
Your letter to President received. This Government assumes the
control of military operations at Charleston, and will make demand of
the fort when fully advised. An officer goes to-night to take charge.
L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 1, 1.861.
His Excellency F. W. PICKENS, Governor, & c.:
SIR: Your letter of the 27th ultimo addressed to the President has
been referred by him to this Department for reply.
In controlling the military operations in the harbor of Charleston the
President directs me to say that everything will be done that may be
due to the honor and rights of South Carolina.
The President shares the feeling expressed by you that Fort Sumter
should be in our possession at the earliest moment possible. But this
feeling, natural and just as it is admitted to be must yield to the neces-
sity of the case. Thorough preparation must be made before an attack
is attempted, for the first blow must be successful, both for its moral
and physical consequences, or otherwise the result might be disastrous
to your State in the loss of many of those whom we can least afford to
spare. A failure would demoralize our people and injuriously aft~ct u~
in the opinion of the world as reckless and precipitate
Page 260
260 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I
Entertaining these opinions, the President directs me to say that he
is engaged assiduously in pressing forward measures to effect results in
which all are interested. Under the fourth section of an act of Congress
to raise Provisional Forces for the Confederate States of America, and
for other purposes, a copy of which I have the honor to inclose in another
rommunication of this date, the President has appointed Peter G. T.
Beauregard brigadier-general to command the Provisional Forces of this
Government in the harbor of Charleston. General Beauregard will be
accompanied by an adjutant, whose duty it will be to receive into the
Provisional Army, with their officers, nuder the provisions of the act
aforesaid, the forces of your State now in Charleston.
General Beauregard has the entire confidence of the President and of
this Department, and I beg to commend him as possessing every soldierly
jjuality.
I have the honor to be, with high regard, your obedient servant,
L. P. WALKER,
SecreUu~y of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 1, 1861.
Brig. Gen. P. G. T. BEAUREGARD:
SIR: You will proceed without delay to Charleston and report to
Governor Pickens for military duty in that State.
You are authorized by your appointment as brigadier-general, under
the proyisions of the third section of an act of the Congress to raise
Provisional Forces for the Confederate States, to receive into the service
of this Government such forces as may be tendered or may volunteer,
not to exceed five thousand men, as you may require, or for whom you
~an make suitable provision. A copy of the act referred to has been
this day transmitted to Governor Pickens.
You will report to this Department your arrival at Charleston, and
give such information with respect to the defenses of that harbor as you
may consider important. You will also secure, if possible, the services
of a competent adjutant, and report your action in that behalf to this
Department.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. P. WALKER,
& cretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Montgomery, March 2, 1861.
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD, Commanding at Charleston:
GENERAL: The Secretary of the Treasury has directed Governor
Pickens to transfer to your credit, as commanding officer at Charleston,
the sum of $20,000, to meet your present necessities. Other arrange-
ments are in progress, with every prospect of speedy success, to place
to your credit such sums as you may need from time to time. If you
have failed to secure the services of a competent assistant adjutant
and quartermaster, let me know it without delay, as I can now supply
you with these officers. As there may be some temporary dissatisfac-
tion with the State troops at Charleston, owing fo the fact that you
have superseded their commanding officers, it might be proper for you,
as soon as possible, to muster one or more companies at least into th
Page 261
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 261
Provisional Army. This would give you an organized corps and inde.
pendent action.
I suggest, unless in your opinion it is absolutely necessary, that you
decline to receive any cavalry into the Provisional Army, as you
are aware the cost of this arm of the service is very heavy, and it is
more than probable that the necessities of your position at Charleston
will not require this outlay.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
- L. P. WALKER,
& eretary of War.
EXEcuTIvE OFFICE, DEPARTMENT OF WAR,
Charleston, 5. 0., March 3, 1861.
Peter G. T. Beauregard having been appointed brigadier-general of
the Confederate States of America, and having been ordered to assume
conimand of the troops in and near Charleston Harbor, will be obeyed
and respected accordingly, and all State officers of the volunteers,
enlisted men, and militia, on duty, are commanded to obey all orders
emanating from him.
D. F. JAMISON.
WASHINGTON, March 4, 1861.
Gov. F. W. PIUKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
Do not permit any attack on Sumter without authority of Government
of Confederated States. This is all important. Inaugural means war.
There is strong ground for belief that re-enforcements will be speedily
sent. Be vigilant.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
I concur, and believe this Government will act promptly.
L. Q. WASHINGTON.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Montgomery, March 4, 1861.
His Excellency the PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES:
SIR: I have the honor to transmit herewith the estimates required
for the service of the War Department for twelve months:
Schedule A* is the estimate for the support of three thousand
troopsthe probable number now at Charlestonto be mustered into
the service of this Government, under the act of the Congress to raise
Provisional Forces for the Confederate States of America, and for other
purposes.
Schedule B* is the estimate for the support of two thousand addi-
tional troops, should the same be required at Charleston, to be mustered
into the service under said act.
Schedule C* is the estimate for the Regular Army of the Confederate
States, nuder the bill now pending before the Congress.
~ The items of these schedules are not deemed of sufficient importance for publica-
tion; their totals are as follows:
Schedule A $1,323,766 72
B ... .. 860.228 45
C 6,533,760 0
Page 262
262 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [ChAP. I.
The note appended to Schedule A explains the seeming discrepancy
in that estimate and Schedule C the estimate for the Regular Army.
No estimate has been made for any of the State forces that may be
mustered into the service of this Government, under the Provisional
Army bill, other than those of South Carolina.
There were no data in this Department upon which any approximate
estimate could be made, as no returns have been received from any of the
the States except South Carolina of the number of troops to be tendered,
or that may volunteer under the- provisions of the aI3t referred to.
It is probable that the Regular Army to be provided for cannot be
organized in time to meet the possible emergencies of the service, and
the only present available forces belong to the military organizations of
the respective States.
As no estimate is made for any of these State troops except those of
South Carolina, and as the appropriations for the Regular Army could
not be used for the support of the Provisional Forces without legisla-
tion to that effect, I would suggest that this authority be conferred by
the Congress.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War.
HEADQUARTERS FORT MOULTRIE, S. C.,
March 5, 1861.
Maj. N. G. EVANS, Adjutant-General, South Carolina Army:
MAJOR: In accordance with the orders contained in your letter of
this date, Major Smiths battalion of the First South Carolina Volun-
teers is now embarking for Morris Island. Their departure will leave
a total of 305, including 63 Vigilant Rifles, who are all required for
guard at the five-gun battery. Of the 242, Company D ,~of the Ar-
tillery battalion, has been down but a few days, and are in constant
readiness for duty in the floating battery. Their total present is 74,
and deducting them, I have but 171 total, to man 15 guns on the
channel, requiring 75; 11 gulls on the Sumter battery, 55; 4 guns on
the oblique battery, 20, and 40 men for the mortar battery, requiring
190 at least, to say nothing of guard duty at the fort, which, of course,
must be attended to In addition to this, the absence of a force of
some efficiency entails upon this command the necessity of keeping up
the guard at the eastern end of the island and at the steamboat laud-
ing; and, in addition, I have set my men at work on the fortifications,
to complete traverses, & c. I respectfully represent that in my opinion
an efficient force for support to the batteries on this island is absolutely
necessary, and that the artillery should be kept to the duties of their
batteries alone. Again, the principal quartermasters duty on this
island now falls on the battalion quartermaster of the artillery, who is
now commanding a company, and cannot be spared. I respectfully
represent that when a command is sent it should have its own quar-
termaster and staff.
In order to prepare as quickly and as fully as possible for contin-
gencies, I have the honor to request that I may have permission to
select from recruits (now in the various depots) a sufficient number to
fill Companies A, B, and D, of the artillery battalion, to the maximum
strength allowed by law, viz, one hundred privates to a company. I
request the permission to select, because there are many newly-en
Page 263
Cu~. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 263
listed recruits, who would have to be rejected, and of the enlisted men
the artillery will be more specially required. Any failure in that
branch of the service, I fear, may result in disaster. In this estimate
above I do not include the infantry recruits, now on this island, who, I
do not think, will be efficient for some weeks.
I have the honor to request, in conclusion, that you will bring this
letter as soon as possible to the consideration of the brigadier-general
commanding.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. S. RIPLEY,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Artillery, Commanding.
WASHINGTON CITY Mar
General L. POPE WALKER, , oh 5, 1861.
Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
DEAR SIR: Judge Clay asked me before he left here to telegraph and
write to Governor Moore any matters of importance. This was before
the formation of the Provisional Government at Montgomery. Nothing
has occurred since that request to justify a special dispatch, and now it
appears to me that if there should be movem nts of troops or ships
which come to my knowledge it would be better to send them to you.
I shall do so on learning anything of importance in a reliable way. I
may send the dispatch in a letter to Richmond to be telegraphed from
there, or I may send it from here, as circumstances dictate.
The inaugural undoubtedly means war, and that right off. I have
never doubted as to Lincolns views, and nothing would have changed
them but the secession of the border States, who have not acted.
Mr. Crawford is here, and will proceed to execute the duties of his
mission as soon as the new Secretary of State is installed. This will
be, I suppose, to-morrow morning at furthest.
1 was present last evening at a consultation of Southern gentlemen,
at which Messrs. Crawford, Garnett, Pryor, De Jarnette, of Virginia,
and Wigfall, of Texas, were present. We all put the same construction
on the inaugural, which we carefully went over together. We agreed
that it was Lincolns purpose at once to attempt the collectiou of the
revenue, to re-enforce and hold Fort Sumter and Pickens. and to retake
the other places. He is a man of will and firmness. His Cabinet will
yield to him with alacrity, I think. Seward has, of course, agreed to
the inaugural, and the pretenses of his conservatism are idle.
We believe that these plans will be put into execution immediately.
I learn five or six United States ships are in New York Harbor, all
ready to start. The United States steamer Pawnee came here the
other day suddenly from Philadelphia, fully provisioned and ready to
go to sea.
I understand that it is spoken of in Army circles to re-enforce Sumter
by sending in men in whale-boats by night. This will probably b~,
attempted in the first instance. After the garrison is re-enforced suffi-
ciently to stand an assault, then the attempt may be made to fight the
way up by live or six war vessels. Simultaneously or prior to this will
be the change of programme at Pensacola by the United States, Pensa-
coJa being a point of infinitely more importance. Considei~ng this and
the evident purpo~e auiiounced in the inaugural, would it not be expe-
dient to prevent anything in the shape of dispatches, letters, or messen-
gers from going to Slemmer or the other United States officers or me
Page 264
264 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CifAP. I.
at Pensacola ~ By this you will have the advantage of knowing the
movements from this point before the Government officers at Pensacola.
We shall endeavor to get bold of movements as soon as possible, and
to advise you. Of course we labor under great difficulties in procuring
early intelligence.
There is a general concurrence in the opinion that if any attack is
made on Sumter it should be by order of the Government of the Con-
federate States and not by South Carolina alone.
Very truly yours,
L. Q. WASHINGTON.
Will you please show this letter to the Hon. Mr. Perkins, Secretary of
the Navyl
I fear the present Virginia Convention will not pass an ordinance of
secession unless a collision or war ensues; then public feeling will force
them to it. There is a majority of old Federal submissionists, who got
in by pretending to be resistance men.
HEADQUARTERS CONFEDERATE STATES ARMY,
Lient. Col. ~. S. RIPLEY, Charleston, S. C., March 6, 1861.
Commanding Fort ]Ifoultrie, S. C.:
COLONEL: The general commanding desires that you send imme-
diately to the five-gun battery, commanding Maffitts Channel, two 32-
poundersr with the necessary. ammunition, as ordered yesterday, and
have them mounted. Be on the lookout to-night for the Crusader,
a four-gun brig, reported to be on her way with one hundred and
twenty men for the re-enforcement of Fort Sumter.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. W. FERGUSON,
Captain, and Aide-dc-Camp.
HEADQUARTERS FORT MOULTRIE, S. C.,
ilfareh 6, 1861.
Capt. S. W. FERGUSON, Aide-de-Camp, Charleston S. C.:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your commu-
nication (private and confidential) of this date. In reply, I have to state
that I have no means at my disposal to send the 32-pounders from this
post to the five-gun battery this evening, nor have I a gin to dismount
or mount them. Moreover, I have not a single artificer to send to that
battery, to build the traverses or pintle centers, -some 290 indifferent
artilicrymen (74 of the 290 held in readiness for special service), 53 volun-
t~ers at the tivc-gun battery, and 318 helpless infantry recruits, almost
without arms, without clothing, and totally and entirely unfit to meet the
euemy, constituting all of my command. I will send the guns as soon
as I can have the pintle centers and traverse circles in position; bat, I
imagine, the engineer in charge of the works is without the means to do
the work required. Should the Crusader, however, come in this direc-
tion to-night, I beg to suggest, if the guard-boats do their duty, that I
can attend to her case with the force at my disposal, although inefficient
at this post
Page 265
Ca& r. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 265
I had the honor to send a communication, concerning the state of
this command, last evening to Major Evans, adjutant-general, to which
I beg now to refer.
To day, for lack of laborers, the men have been employed on the
defenses and I beg to say that the more drilling and the less of
labor they do for some time to come the more efficient they will prob-
ably be.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant.
B. S. RIPLEY,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.
CHARLESTON, March 6, 1861.
President DAVIS, Montgomery:
Mv DEAR SIR: I inclose you, according to promise, a statement show-
ing the strength of the volunteer division of Sonth Carolina. Some of
the regiments are commanded by highly accomplished graduates of our
military academies, and some by officers of the Palmetto Regiment.
It is altogether a superb body of troops, and I think will give a good
account of themselves by their acts.
Under the skillful conduct of General Beauregard the works here are
likely to be put promptly in the best possible condition to prevent re-
enforcements. The danger to be feared is that light-draught vessels,
barges, or boats in the night may be sent in through the two middle
channels, known as the Overall and North Channels; but you doubt.
less get fuller information than I can give you on these points.
Mr. Miles has doubtless apprised you of my readiness to enter the
service of the confederation in the capacity you indicated. I say to you,
however, frankly, that I should like to see my brigadiers in the field with
their commands, or so many as may be needed, and be there myself with
my present rank. If raising General Beauregards rank a grade does
not embarrass you, I would cheerfully report to him. The exbibition of
skill, promptness, and energy by General Beanregard is highly gratify-
ing to the authorities here.
I am, very sincerely and truly, yours,
M. L. BONHAM.
[Inclosure.]
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOwrH CAROLINA,
March 6, 1861.
M. L. BONHAM,
Major- General, 61ommanding Volunteer Forces of S. C.:
GENERAL: The number of companies organized and received nnder
the act of general assembly of 17th December, 1860, is one hundred and
four in the aggregate amounting to 8,835, rank and file, constituting
ten regiments of ten companies each. The force is divided into four
brigades, constituting one division.
Respectfully,
S. R. GIST,
Adjutant and Inspector General of South Carolina
Page 266
266 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. (CHAP. L
IIDQRS. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., March 6, 1861.
Capt. FRANCIS D. LEE, Corps of Engineers:
CAPTAIN: Your communications of the 5th and 6th instants* have beeu
received at these headquarters, and I am instructed by the general com-
manding, in acknowledging their receipt and thanking you for them, to
say that the first is now under consideration, and that the last is ap-
proved, and you are hereby authorized to carry into execution what you
therein propose. The general had determined last night on a similar
project. The order for the guns to which you refer, and which are to
be placed as designated yesterday, has already been issued.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. W. FERGUSON,
Captain Infantry, and Aide-dc- ~Jamp.
CHARLESTON, S. C., March 6, 1861.
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Charleston and vicinity:
GENERAL: I would respectfully call your attention to the following
points in connection with the Ordnance Department in this vicinity:
I find no props under the center rail of the chassis,or elsewhere.
Unless these props are supplied the guns are liable at any moment to
dismount themselves. The chassis of the carriages at the iron battery
at Cummings Point have not sufficient inclination, and unless the guns
are secured by rope or other tackle they will probably soon dismount
themselves. I have ordered all the necessary barbette carriages to be
made,. and as soon as possible spare parts of all kinds should be made,
especially for the old carriages. I find only mortar shell at Fort Morris,
and those I examined at the iron battery were case.shotnot even mor-
tar shell. There is a scarcity of proper fuse-plugs and fuses. The small
number of fuses at Fort Moultrie is being multiplied by cutting them in
parts. I fear this may not only defeat the object intended but render
the fuses of very little use at all. The magazine at Fort Morris, if pos-
sible should be overhauled and rearranged. Hot-shot furnaces, or even
stoves, should be supplied at Morri-~ Island batteries.
I remain, general, very re.~pectfully, your obedient servant,
W. ZR. BOGGS,
Captain of Ordnance, S. C. Army.
HDQRS. OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., March 6, 1861.
GENERAL ORDERS, ~
No.1. 5
I. By virtue of authority from the War Department, Confederate
States of America, bearing date Montgomery, March 1, 1861, and of au-
thority of the Department of War, State of South Carolina, bearing
date March 3, 1861, the undersigned assumes command of all the troops
Regulars, Yolunteers, and Militiaon duty in anJ. near Charlesten
Harbor.
II. The following appointments are ~nnounced on the staff of the briga-
Not found
Page 267
Cn& r. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 267
dier-general commanding: Capt. B. II. Jones, as assistant adjutant-gen-
eral; Capt. Stephen ID. Lee, of the regular artillery service of the State of
South Carolina, as acting assistant quartermaster-general and acting
assistant commissary-general; Capt. S. Wragg Ferguson, of the regular
infantry service of the State of South Carolina, as aide-de-camp; First
Lient. Joseph J. Legar6, of the regular engineer service of the State of
South Carolina, as private secretary.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., March 7, 1861.
JAeut. Col. R. S. RIPLEY,
Commanding Battalion of Artillery, Fort Mioultrie, S. C.:
SIR: Your two letters of the 5th and 6th instants have been received,
and the matters referred to by you will be attended to forthwith. The
affair of selections has been referred to General Dunovant. I am fully
aware of the difficulties of your position, but from your zeal and knowu
ability to surmount obstacles I have no doubt you will give a good ac-
count of yourself and command when the hour of trial shall have arrived.
I regret (in the movement of troops lately taken place) you had to be
deprived of the command on Sullivans Island, for which position I know
you are highly qualified, but the necessities of the service required the
order to be given. Whenever practicable a different arrangement will
be made.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., March 7, 1861.
Maj. W. GWYNN, Corps of Engineers:
MAJOR: The general commanding desires that the embrasure enfilad-
ing battery, and the mortar battery beyond Moultrie, be constructed
first, unless you have already commenced the one across the bay, in
which case you will continue the latter to completion, and, instead of
adding those two 32-pounders from Moultrie to the five-gun battery, as
ordered, he intends to add them to the first-named mortar battery, with
a strong traverse between them and the mortars. They must also have
strong flank traverses.
Major Trapier will please caution Capt. S. Y. Tupper, of the five-gun
battery, that the traverses and pintles being on a wrong level at that
battery, the chassis must be propped up in their middle when the gnu
is fired to prevent its breaking, the slope being too steep.
I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. W. FERGUSON,
Captain, and Aide-de- Camp.
P. S.At Cummings Point on Morris Island he wishes all work to
be stopped at present, except at the iron battery (finishing the work he
ordered there) and at the condemned mortar battery (which he ordered
to be changed into a bomb-proof). The balance of the Working force wil
Page 268
268 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. Z~
immediately (under the charge of Colonel Lamar, who has command of
the working parties) be put to work constructing those channel batter-
ies he ordered Major Whiting to mark out, so as to have them com-
pleted as soon as practicable. Should Captain Lee, the local engineer,
who has received instructions from Major Whiting, require assistant
engineers, you will transfer to him one or two from Major Trapier, should
the latter be able to spare them.
Very respectfully,
S. W. F.
FORT PALMETTO, STONO INLET, S. C.,
March 7, 1861.
Brigadier-General DUNOVANT:
GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that in the firing at this
post yesterday, the 18-pounder guns, which are the largest at this post,
were found entirely insufficient to command the Stono Channel of this
entrance. At an elevation of five degrees the balls failed to reach the
Stono Channel. I take occasion, therefore, again to call this matter to
your attention, and to request that two 32-pounders, or, at all events,
two 24-pounders, be ordered to this post. In a conversation with Col-
onel Manigault, of the board of ordnance, on Friday last, March 1, 1
was led to believe that two 24-pounders would be sent to this post in
a few days; but they have not yet been received. Except our field
guns, we have here bat two 18-pounders.
In the present uncertain aspect of affairs, when any point seems sub-
ject to assault, I would suggest, for your consideration, the remoteness
of the troops here from effective assistance, and the smallness of the
force under my command. If the fortification had been brought to a
comparative state of completion, we could hold it against large odds.
The planters of Johns Island, who volunteered to complete it, as I was
informed, left it not half finished, and the troops have bestowed niuch
labor upon it, to bring it to a defensible condition. I therefore again
call your attention to the smallness of the force here (considering the
unfinished state of the fortification), to the difficulty of timely succor,
and to the impracticability of a retreat, surrounded, as we are, by rivers,
and without transports beiug furnished us, if retreat should become
necessary.
I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,
J. J. POPE, JR.,
Commander of the Post.
HEADQUARTERS REGIMENT OF RIFLES,
Sullivans Island, S. 0., March 7, 1861.
Hon. P. F. JAMISON, Secretary of War:
SIR: In compliance with the order of yesterday, I left a detachment
of forty-seven men, of the Regiment of Rifles, at Secessiouville, to keep
open communication with Morris Island. I would respectfully request
that they be ord& red to join th& regiment again. They will be of little
or no service for this purpose. Five ordinary employ~s of the quarter-
masters department would answer the end quite as well. Furthermore,
Secessionville is not the proper point for the mere purpose of coinmuni-
cation. The point should be Clarks Lauding, and the route from Dills
Landing direct, thus avoiding a long detour. There is yet anothe
Page 269
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONI)ENCE, ETC.CO~FEDERATE. 269
reason. Every post should keep open its own commnnication. They
will feel far more interest in the work than the members of another regi-
ment, who are to have no share in the honors of the contest. If your
excellency agrees with me, I would suggest that orders to that effect be
issued immediately, so that they can make use of the means of trans-
portation iiow engaged in transferring the commissary stores.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant.
J. JOHNSTON PETTJGREW,
Colonel Regiment of Rifles.
HEADQUARTERS FORT MOULTRIE, S C.,
March 8, 1861.
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD,
Gommanding Army Confederate States of America:
GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letters
of yesterdays date, and thank you for the confidence you express. Did
I not, however, make known my deficiencies, I should mislead the officer
in command, and possibly entail disaster, from not having such as can
be supplied. With regard to the command on Sullivans Island, I am
very glad to be relieved from the details of it, as it enables me to give
my attention to what I have no doubt is considered as of the first
importancethe preparation of the artillery service. I beg to take the
liberty of suggesting the importance, in my opinion, of the first turn in
the beach of this island, east of this fort, as a position for a channel
battery, rather than the position now occupied by the five-gun battery.
From that point the guns can command every channel, and especially
the north and south channels, where the vessels having re-enforcements
are bound to come in, as things at present stand. Now those channels
are only protected by this fort. If labor can be obtained and the work
commenced, I would respectfally recommend the removal of four guns
from the five-gun battery, leaving one, which can be so arranged as to
traverse completely around and make the addition formerly proposed
from this fort, or even more, in addition to the mortars which are to be
placed there. The Maffitt Channel would be completely blocked and the
new battery would materially add to the defenses of the channels men-
tioned above.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. S. RIPLEY,
Lieutenant- Colonel, Artillery, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S. C..
March 8, 1861.
To the CHIEF OF STAFF OF BRIGADIER-GENERAL BEAUREGARD:
SIR : I received notice from the Ordnance Department yesterday
afternoon that two 24-pounders and two 12-pounders were sent to this
island, but with out any information of the manner in which they were
to come or the point at which the 12-pounders were fo be landed.
This morning I learned that a steamer, the Chesterfield, was at the
south point of the island, with the four guns, and with a framed stable,
to be used for the horses of the battery of field artillery. I sent the
quartermaster of my regiment with written orders for the 24-pounders
to be landed at the south point, the 12-pounders near Vinegar Hill, an
Page 270
270 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
the stable at an intermediate point, where I propose to pitch my camp.
Not being certain that it would be practicable to land the 12-pounders
and the stable on the beach, I gave verbal orders, leaving it to the dis-
cretion of Lieutenant-Colonel Hamilton to have them brought round the
north point of the island, in order to be conveyed by the creek, on the
west side of the island.
My quartermaster has just reported to me that the master of the
steamer (Flynn, I think, is his name), in disobedience of my orders, and
alleging orders to himself to land everything at the south point (but
showing no written order to that effect), is proceeding to put out, not
only the 24-pounders and the 12-pounders, but the timber of the stable,
at the south point. This will be exeedingly inconvenient, as it will be
an immense labor to haul all the material of the stable through the heavy
sand this side of the south point. I have sent down Lieutenant-Colonel
Hamilton, with orders to arrest and confine the master of the steamer,
put the next officer in command of the boat, and bring back the stable,
together with the 12-pounders, to the north point of the island, whence
they can be conveyed (in a smaller vessel) through the back creek. I
am not sure, however, that this will be in time to remedy the inconven-
ience, as the landing of the material may be completed before Lieut-
enant-Colonel Hamilton gets to the point. I respectfully suggest the
necessity of putting the commanders of steamers in the service of the
quartermaster-general under better control. Repeated instances of
misconduct, negligence, and disobedience have come within my obser-
vation.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
MAXCY GREGG,
Cot. First Regiment S. C. TTols., Commander on Morris Island.
P. S.Since writing the above letter, which was too late for this
mornings boat, Captain Flynn, of the Chesterfield, being brought to my
quarters, under guard, and having promised to carry the stable and the
two 12-pounders to the north point of the island, has been released from
arrest and sent back to the command of his boat. If Daly, the master
of the little steam-fiat, obeys the orders given to him by Colonel Hatch,
and comes to Cummings Point this afternoon, I shall be able to send
the lumber and guns up the back creek by his boat. But his previouM
conduct leaves me in entire uncertainty whether to expect him.
M.G.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
Lngineer Bureau, Gharleston, 5. G., March 8, 1861.
Capt. S. W. FERGUSON, Aide-de.Can~p:
CAPTAIN: By direction of the Secretary of War, I send you a copy of
a report this day addressed to him. I am required to make daily re-
ports to the Secretary, and am instructed by him to send copies of them
to the commanding general.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WALTER GWYNX,
Major of Bngineers
Page 271
ChAP. I.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 271
[Inclosure.]
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Engineer Bureau, Charleston, 5. C., March 8, 1861.
Maj. Gen. S. 11. GIST, Adjutant and Inspector General:
GENERAL: Owing to very pressing engagements, as also owing to
daily reports not having been sent in regularly by the engineers iu
charge of the several works under construction in the harbor of Charles-
ton, my daily reports have been interrupted for the past three or four
days.
I have now to report that the reconstruction of the mortar battery on
the beach at Fort Johnsou is very nearly completed. It is designed
to move two mortars from this battery and place them where I com-
menced a battery, for the removal of the four mortars from the beach
battery. The battery and magazine for these mortars will be completed
in a few days. On Morris Island all the guns and mortars which have
been sent over have been mounted and placed.
The following postscript, attached to an order of the 7th instant, from
the commanding general, will show, to some extent, future operations
on Morris Island, viz:
At Cummings Point on Morris Island he wishes all work stopped at present, except
at the iron battery (finishing the work lie ordered there) and at the condemned mor-
tar battery (which he ordered to be changed into a bomb-proof). The balance of the
working force will immediately (under charge of Colonel Lamar, who has command
of the working parties) be put to work constructing those channel batteries he ordered
Major Whiting to mark out, so as to have them completed as soon as practicable.
Twenty-eight laborers (all that could be procured) worked yesterday
on a battery for four 24-pounders, near the steamboat landing, at the
point of Sullivans Island, ordered by the commauding general, for
enfilading the guns en barbette on Fort Sumter.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WALTER GWYNN,
Major of Engineers.
HEADQUARTERS CONFEDERATE STATES ARMY,
Charleston, S. C., March 8, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: The Department letter of the 2d instant has been received, but
could not be answered sooner. Governor Pickens, who obligingly affords
me all the assistance in his power, as well as all his officers, suggests
that the State of South Carolina should continue to defray all the present
current expenses incurred within its limits, so as not to complicate the
present moneyed difficulties of the Confederate States Government.
This would probably be a very proper arrangement.
With regard to the supposed temporary dissatisfaction of the State
troops, alluded to by you, upon consultation with the governor, he ad-
vises that the brigade of State Regulars should remain as at present
organized, until required to enter the Federal service, but in the mean
time to be under my orders. Its commanding general and staff have
readily assented to this arrangement, and by the order of the governor
(already communicated to the War Department), it must have been
seen that all the troops (State, Regulars, and Volunteers) in or about
Charleston have already been put under my orders, and I can l)erceive
among theni no spirit of opposition or dissatisfaction. On the contrary
Page 272
272 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. 1.
they appear to be animated with the most kindly feelings towards me,
and seem highly pleased at the order assigning me to their command.
I have already given the information here that cavalry would not, at
present, be called into the service of the Confederate States.
Every one here seems to be gradually becoming aware, through my
cautious representations, that we are not yet prepared for the contest,
and that the first work in order is to endeavor to keep re-enforcemeuts
from getting into Fort Sumter by increasing our channel defenses, which
I hope to be able to accomplish in about a week or ten days. In the
mean time I will go on organizing everything around me.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WAn DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 9, 1861.
Brig. Gen. P. G. T. BEAUREG-ARD, Charleston:
GENERAL: Your report of the 6th instant has been received at this
Department. What you have done and what you propose to do is ap-
proved. Push forward your contemplated works with all possible ex-
l)CditiOfl, especially with the view to prevent the re-enforcement of Fort
Sumter. This must be prevented at all hazards, an(l by the use of every
conceivable agency. Fort Sumter is silent now only because of the
weakness of the garrison. Should re-enforcements get in, her gnhs would
open fire upon you.
There is information at this Departmentnot official, it is true, but
believed to be reliablethat five or six United States ships are in ~ew
York Harbor all ready to start.
The United States steamer Pawnee has left Philadelphia suddenly
for Washington, fully provisioned and ready to go to sea, and it is prob-
able that the effort to re-enforce Sumter may be made by sending in men
in whale-boats to-night. Should this plan succeed and the garrison be
re-enforced sufficiently to stand an assault the attempt may be made to
fight their way up by five or six war vessels.
In his report to this Department Major Whiting suggested the possi-
bility of re-enforcements by land. Upon examining the map it occurs
to me that this possibility might be accomplished in two ways: First,
at the south of Morris Island there is an inlet which connects with
Schooner Creek, and affords a water communication in the rear of all
our works directly up to Fort Sumter. The creeks are, however, very
winding, and probably if taken In hand at once could easily. be obstructed
by sinking flats or boats. Second, Stono River affords, I should think,
an entrance to vessels ot from cight to twelve feet draught, which may
land troops on James Island, or go through a cut known as James
Island Cut. Neither method, I take it, would be practicable if any
troops were on James Island; bat in the absence of them a sudden rush
might possibly avail.
These suggestions are made without special knowledge, and are sub-
mitted for your consideration.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant,
L. P. WALKER,
& cretary of War
Page 273
CHAP. I.]
273
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE.
IIDQRS. PRoY. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., March 9, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: I inclose you herewith the report of Col. M. Gregg, First Regi-
ment South Carolina Yolunteers, commanding on Morris Island, at the
entrance of this harbor, reporting the circumstances connected with the
accidental shooting of a loaded gun towards Fort Sumter on the 8th
instant. From the inquiries thus far made, it would appear to have
been entirely accidental; but I have ordered a thorough investigation
of the affair to be made at once, and in order to prevent the recurrence
of an event which might be attended with such disastrous consequences,
I have ordered that hereafter no gun should be practiced with without
first ascertaining whether it be loaded or not.
The channel batteries are progressing regularly, and the other works
are being corrected and consolidated. Nothing new otherwise.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S. C.,
March 8, 1861.
To the CHIEF OF STAFF OF BRIGADIER-GENERAL BEAUREGARD:
SIR: I am informed by Major Stevens that a shot was accidentally
fired from the iron battery this morning, which struck Fort Sumter.
Major Stevens was practicing with blank cartridges, and does not know
how a shot got in. He does not suspect that it was put in by any man
intentionally. Major Stevens is about to go with a flag to Fort Sumter
to explain the accident.
I have to request that General Beauregard will forward this note for
the information of the commander-in-chief
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
MAXCY GREGG,
Colonel First Regiment South Carolina Volunteers,
Commanding on Morris Island.
WASHINGTON, March 11, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Army Confederate States, Charleston, S. C.:
Believed here that Anderson will be ordered to evacuate Sumter in
five days. Was certainly informally agreed on in Cabinet Saturday
night. May have been done as ruse to throw you off your guard and
enable them to re-enforce.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
WASHINGTON, March 11, 1861.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, Montgomery, Ala.:
It is believed here in Black Republican circles that Anderson will be
ordered to vacate Fort Sumter in five days. An informal conclusion to
this effect was arrived at Saturday night in Cabinet. Anderson tele-
graphed, it is said, that he had no fuel and but fifteen days provisions.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
18 R
Page 274
274 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CnAr. I.
IIDQES. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., March 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: I have taken the earliest opportunity my present duties would
permit (yesterday) to make a thorough reconnaissance of the country
south of this city to the Stono River and its mouth, to determine what
works are required to prevent an enemy from approaching in that
direction, either to throw re-enforcements during the night into Fort Sum-
ter, through the Stono River, Folly River, or Light-house Inlet, and their
numerous and intricate branches (see Baches maps of Charleston Harbor
and adjacent coast and country), or to attack Charleston. I have select-
ed the sites and ordered the construction of some field works that will,
I think, effectually guard those channels of approach; but we must
have time and means to complete them. With good assistants (chiefs
of Engineers and Ordnance) this could probably be done in about eight
~r ten days; but Major Whiting and Captain Boggs (two most reliable
an efficient officers) have been recalled to Savannah by the governor of
A3eorgia, and I am again left to my own resources. Their absence fills
me with care and grief, for other very important matters demand my
attention; in fact, a great deal in the way of organization remains still
to be attended to. I find a great deal of zeal and energy around me,
but little professional knowledge and experience. I earnestly request
the immediate return of the two officers just named, or that two others,
of equal ability, if they can be procured, be sent me. Probably Capt.
G. W. Smith, of New York, and Captain Gorgas might be induced to
come, if a positive rank could be offered to them. Should an enemy
succeed in effecting a landing on the Stono River (a very navigable
stream), or anywhere else in that direction, I will take a position with
all my disposable forces in a very advantageous location I have selected,
a little in advance of the Savannah road bridge, leading into Charleston,
covering, at the same time, the bridge with a tete-de-pont. From thence
I will oppose to the last his direct attack, or take him in flank and rear,
to cut off his communication, if practicable.
With regard to my letter of the 12th, referring to my present com-
mission in the Confederate service, I desire to state that should my
application to be appointed in the Regular service, instead of the
Provisional one, occasion any embarrassment to the President, I
desire it to remain unnoticed; and, moreover, should he at any time
consider it necessary for the good of the service or safety of the country
to send here an officer of more experience than myself, I hope he will
do so without hesitation,as I care more for the success of our arms
and of our cause than for the honor of being iii command here, and I
would serve under the orders of such a commanding officer with the
same zeal and activity as at present.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
P. S.Your letter of the 9th instant has just been received. Its re-
marks are answered in the above letter.
G.T.B.
MARCH 13, 1861.
F. W. PICKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
Telegram to Wigfall received. He is absent. Evacuation of Sumter
probable; not certain. If so, it is a necessity, not a concession.
H. P. BREWSTER
Page 275
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 275
WASHINGTON, March 14, 1861.
Gov. F. W. PICKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
I confidently believe Sumter will be evacuated, and think a Govern-
ment messenger left here yesterday with orders to that effect for
Anderson.
JOHN FORSYTH.
MONTGOMERY, March 14, 186 L
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston;
Steamers Star of the West, Harriet Lane, Crusader, Mohawk, and
Empire City ordered to sail from New York last night. Said to carry
arms, provisions, and men. Destination not known.
L. P. WALKER.
[Copies to General Bragg, Pensacola; Captain Jones, Fort Morgan;
Major Duncan, Forts Jackson and St. Philip.]
HDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., March 15, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
Sin: I have the honor to acknowledge the three telegrams of the 13th
and 14th instants.* I telegraphed an answer to-day.
Major Whiting has this day reported for duty. Captain Northrop
informed me a few days ago that he had informed you he could not at
present accept the commission offered him. I would at present have no
need of him. I have ordered the Drummond-light operator to be here
forthwith, for his services will be required as soon as the apparatus
arrives. After instructing two or three persons here he might be sent
to New Orleans.
By the orders transmitted to-day it will be seen that I am straining
every nerve to be ready to meet successfully any re-enforcements that
may be intended for Fort Sumter. I believ~ in a very few days I will
be ready at all points. I have made a thorough reconnaissance of all
I he coast approaches to Charleston, and, with a little time, see not mnch
difficulty in preventing an enemy from using them with any prospect of
success. I have sncceeded in obtaining, for about ten days, the services
of a competent ex-officer of the Ordnance, who is on a visit hereLient.
Charles C. Lee, now professor in a military school of north Carolina.
I hope, with his assistance, to be able to put the ordnance at this place
in a better condition than it is at present. Captain Boggs, during the
very few days he spent here, had already done a great deal towards that
very desirable end. I found so much opposition here to the employment
of Capt. J. P. Jones, Lieutenants Williams, OBrien, and Robertson, as
company officers in any of the regiments here, that I put the first two on
ordnance duty, as receivers of ordnance, & c., at the batteries, and the
other two as assistant engineers. Lieutenant Williams has been quite
sick since his arrival Jwre; the others appear to be very zealous and ener-
getic. As to Captain Jones, I cannot yet speak of him with much cer-
tainty; but although regretting not to be in command of his company, I
* Except that of 14th given above, these refer only to matters of detail
Page 276
276 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. L
have found him anxious to be employed and to prove whether he is fit
for the command of an artillery company or not.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your very obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WAR DEPARTME~r, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 15, 1861.
Brig. Gen. BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
GENERAL: Dispatches just received from Washington, of the highest
authority, speak of mines in Fort Sumter, and a purpose to destroy it
and the garrison rather than be taken. Foster, the Engineer, might be
a good guarantee, if kept in the fort.
Give but little credit to the rumors of an amicable adjustment. Do
not slacken for a moment your energies, and be ready to execute any
order this Department may forward.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
i~. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War.
BALTiMORE, Mn., March 16, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, C. S. A., Charleston, S. C.:
M~ DEAR SIR: By the authority of the Secretary of War, I have
established a recruiting station here and I am induced to believe that
it will meet with decided success. By the time an officer can reach
here there will probably be one hundred recruits to examine. The
moneyed arrangements are all made. I have concluded that it would
be better not to send the men to Charleston until th~ey were examined.
We will then avoid the danger of having to pay the passage money
for men not fit for service. I was merely requested and authorized to
recruit here for the Army of the Confederate States. I have made
arrangements for sending them to you, supposing that you would
have use for them, or, if not, that you could have them enlisted and
drilled till they were ordered elsewhere. Be pleased to confer with
the Secretary of War on the subject if you have no orders. The
recruiting will go on rapidly, and as I determined this morning not
to send men before they were examined, I telegraphed you for an
experienced officer. The men will be kept together until he comes.
If this shall reach you before you have sent an officer, be pleased to
refer him to William T. Walters, of the house of Walters & Co., 68
Exchange Place, with whom I have made the financial arrangements.
Very respectfully,
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
MONTGOMERY March 18, 1861.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Order Lieutenant Haskell to Baltimore. Inquire for W. T. Walters
and Hon. L. T. Wigfall. His duty, superintend shipment of men
to Charleston, where they will be enlisted, and see if they are fit.
Must conceal his mission except from those in secret. Wigfall has
the money. Must go at once.
L. P. WALKER
Page 277
I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 277
[MARCH 20, 1861.]
General BEAUREGARD, Commanding:
Has Sumter been evacuated0? Any action by Anderson indicating it?
CRAWFORD.
FORSYTH.
ROMAN.
WASHINGTON, March 20, 1861.
Hon. R. TooMBS, Montgomery, Ala.:
You liave not heard from us because there is no change. If there is
faith in man we may rely on the assurances we have as to the status.
Time is essential to a peaceful issue of this mission. In the present
posture of affairs precipitation is war. We are all agreed.
ROMAN.
CRAWFORD.
FORSYTH.
WAR DEPARTMENT, A. G. 0.,
Montgomery, March 20, 1861.
Brig. Gen. PETER G. T. BEAUREGARD,
6~ommanding Forces Charleston Army, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: The governor of South Carolina has, in a written communica-
tion, strongly urged the propriety and necessity of enlarging your com-
mand, and extending it so as to embrace the coast of South Carolina,
say from Beanfort to Georgetown. After a careful consideration of the
subject the Secretary of War has concluded to conform to the earnest
recommendation of his excellency, with the full understanding, how-
ever, that in thus Uxtending the limits of your command no risk is to
be incurred by your temporary absence from the harbor of Charleston
at any critical moment, and that your first duty will be to give your
personal attention to the defense of that harbor. The Secretary desires,
therefore, that you will confer with his excellency and be governed by
these instructions.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Engineer Bureau, Charleston, S. C., March 20, 1861.
General D. F. JAMISON, Secretary of War:
GENERAL: The mortar battery at Fort Johnson, on the beach, has
been completed. The battery on the elevated ground has all been com-
pleted, with the exception of the bomb-proof magazines in connection
therewith.
On Morris Island Captain Lee reports that there have been mounted
on the channel two Dahigrens, three colunibiads, two sea-coast howit-
zers, and two 24-pounders. This is the only report I have received
from him in the last four days, and furnishes but a very imperfect
idea of what has been done, or the condition of the new batteries on
Morris Island. Before these batteries had been commenced there were
mounted on the channel seven 24-pounders, two howitzers, and two
Dahlgren guns
Page 278
278 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
On Sullivans Island the only report I have is that the batteries are
progressing, with an increased force of two laborers on the enfilade
battery. Quarters are in progress of erection for the laborers and me-
chanics who are to be employed on the battery on Battery Island.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient
servant, WALTER GWYNN,
Major of Engineers.
WASHING-TON, March 21, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Large number of men in Baltimore. Cannot be kept together there
much longer. Nothing heard of or from ilaskell. What shall I do?
Answer immediately.
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
MONTGOMERY, March 21, 1861.
Hon~ L. T. WIG-FALL, Washington:
Officer leaves to-night with letter for you and full instructions. iDid
not know until half hour ago that ilaskell had not gone. If men cant
wait ship them at once, and write Beauregard the vessel they are in, so
that he may be ready to enlist on arrival.
L. P. WALKER.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 21, 1861.
Hon. L. T. WIG-FALL, Washington, D. C.:
M~ DEAR SIR: I have just received your letter of the 17th instant.
Orders were given to General Beauregard, at Charleston, to detail an
officer for the special service at Baltimore, and I am only just informed
that the officer appointed is still in Charleston. A person will be sent
from this place to-night to perform that duty, with instructions to report
to you if in Baltimore, and in your absence to William T. Walters, 68
Exchange Place, Baltimore. It will be much cheaper to ship the men
as steerage passengers than by rail, and he will be so instructed unless
you have special reasons for a contrary course.
Although it would be most agreeable to all of us to have you here, it
occurs to me that you could render more efficient service by remaining
in Baltimore until our recruiting depot is fully and successfully estab-
lished as an institution. Captain Pender, the officer to be sent from
here to inspect and superintend the shipment of the men, is directed to
place himself under your orders, and will remain in Baltimore for some
weeks. Such money as he may require within the scope of his business
you will arrange for him to have.
I regret to say that I have no authority to receive the Washington
company in the manner proposed. I have no other idea than war, and
we hope soon to be ready for any emergency.
Very truly,
L. P. WALKER
Page 279
CHAP. IL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 279
CHARLESTON, March 21, 1861.
General L. P. WALKER, Secretary qf War:
State ordnance board cannot spare book of plates. * Copies should
be sent if required. Ordnance officer much needed here. Lientenar4
ilaskell cannot go immediately to Baltimore. Department better send
another one from Montgomery. G. T. BEAUREGARD.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, March 21, 1861.
General P. G. T. BEAuREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: The probability is, if there be any reliance on rumors semi-
official in their character, that Fort Sumter will be shortly abandoned.
Of course, it would be proper to afford Major Andersou and his meu a
safe conduct out of the harbor; but before this is done you must feel
perfectly assured that there are no mines laid with trains within the
fort. This might be individually accomplished by informing Major
Anderson that you intended immediately on its abandonment by hiiu
to occupy it, and to take possession of everything left behind; that you
did not desire to do this, except upon an inventory to be made out by
yourself and one of his officers, and the proper officer to be detailed by
him to perform this duty would be Foster, the Engineer.
Should he reply to this proposition that he cannot consider what
course you may pursue after his abandonment of the fort, and therefore
decline to assist in the inventory, it will be your duty to communicate
to him the existence of the rumor, and to demand from him such assur-
ance of its falsity as shall fully satisfy you. If he declines to give this
assurance it will be your duty to prevent their departure. It is hardly
probable that he will decline either of these propositions, but should he
decline both you must pursue the course herein indicated, and keep him
where he is.
Very respectfully, L. ~. WALKER,
Secretary of War.
WAR DEPARTMENT, A. G. 0.,
Montgomery, March 21, 1861.
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREfARD,
Commanding Provisional Forces, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: I am instructed by the Secretary of War to inform you that
Capt. William D. Pender, of the Corps of Artillery, has been sent to
Baltimore, Md., to direct the recruiting service in that city, whose duty
it will be to have every recruit examined and passed by a medical officer
previously to his being accepted. Such as may pass examination are
to be shipped from time to time as they accumulate, and sent to Charles-
ton. The officer will notify you by mail or telegraph of the facts of such
shipments. The recruits on arriving in Charleston are to be there
enlisted into the Army of the Confederate States for the term of years
provided by law.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant- General.
* This refers to plans, & c., seized at Charleston Arsenal, and called for by Mr.
Walker under date of March 18, 1861
Page 280
280 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. I.
CHARLESTON, March 22, 1861.
General L. P. WALKER:
Special messenger from General Scott to learn Andersons condition
arrived last evening. Went back last night. Reports Anderson nearly
out fuel and provisions. All my batteries will be finished and armed
in two or three days. Can I have Boggs?
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
March 24, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD:
M~ DEAR GENERAL: I have read the papers and your note to Major
Anderson. As to the inventory suggested, of all public property, would
it not be well to wait his propositions first ~ Becanse,if we propose an
inventory, it will imply that our Government is to be responsible for the
amount in any future settlement, whereas, considering that the United
States forces inangnrated a state of hostilities, approaching a state of
war (by the removal from Moultrie, by leaving the carriages, spiking the
guns, and cuttiiig down the flagstaff, and left the fort in actual flames,
which would have reached the magazine if I had not taken possession
and stopped the progress), then the attempt to throw re-enforcements in
and the whole course of the Government and command here, has for-
feited all claim for future accountability for armament and public prop-
erty In this fort now; besides, the expenses they have forced us to,in
order to ward off the conquest and subjugation intended by their occu-
pation of Sumter, all cancel the obligation to account. If Anderson
should offer or desire to have an inventory, then I will agree to it with
pleasure, or any reasonable request, so as to get them out without diffi.
culty. But I would, when they retire, sign the inventory with a protest
against the Government being finally resI)onsible, unless it might be ex-
pedient to do so in a full settlement. I have no idea that Anderson has
as yet any authority to agree to your propositions in any shape, because
I do not think the Government has yet empowered him. I merely throw
out these suggestions for the present, and have no objections to your
sending a letter somewhat like yours, if you think the time has now
arrived.
With great regard, yours, very truly,
F. W. PICKENS.
IIDQRS. PROY. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Col. EDWARD MANIGAULT, Charleston, AST. C., March 25,1861.
Chief of Ordnance S. C. Army, Charleston, S. C.;
COLONEL: Your communication of this date is just received. The
brigadier-general commanding desires me to say that he wishes the fob
lowing distribution to be made of the ordnance referred to by you:
One Dahlgren gun to Sullivans Island; two 10-inch sea-coast mortars
to Sullivans Island; two 10-inch sea-coast mortars to Mount Pleasant
battery; two-thirds of the 9-inch shells to Morris Island, for the Dahi-
~ren battery; one-third of the 9-inch shells to Sullivans Island, forthe
IDahlgren battery; all the 8-inch shells to Morris Island; two hundred
10-inch shells to Sullivans Island, for mortar battery; two hundred 10
Page 281
Cm~r. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 281
inch shells to Mount Pleasaut mortar battery. The balance of 10-inch
shells to be equally divided between Morris Island and Fort Johnson.
I have the honor to be colonel
servant, , , very respectfully, your obedient
S. W. FERGUSON,
Captain, and Aide-de-eamp.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
State of South Carolina, March 25, 1861.
[General BEAUREGARD 0?]:
Mv DEAR Sin: I sent Lamon to Major Anderson, and all right. Will
see you as soon as I can. I told him we would agree to evacuation upon
any honorable and reasonable terms, but would not suffer any war vessel
to come up to the fort, and everything must be conducted respectably,
and in no arrogant or wanton manner towards us. He says Spencer
will come out in a few days, certain.
Truly,
F. W. PICKENS.
HEADQUARTERS PROVIsioNAL FORCES,
Charleston, S. C., March 25, 1861.
Brig. Gen. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. Army:
Sin: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your two letters
dated, respectively, the 20th and 21st instants, the former extending
the limits of my command, & c.; the latter in relation to the recruiting
service in Baltimore; also, a telegram from the Secretary of War in
relation to the recruits. The instructions contained therein will be com-
plied with. I will not leave this city until after the evacuation of Fort
Sumter. Sixty-four recruits arrived here from Baltimore, under the
charge of Mr. R. E. Haslett, on Saturday, the 23d instant, and were sent
to Castle Piuckney. They will be enlisted to-day. Captain Childs and
Lieutenants OBrien and Robertson have been assigned to duty with
them. The quartermaster-general of the State of South Carolina has
kindly offered to furnish them with the necessary rations, clothing, & c.,
to be settled for hereafter. It would, perhaps, be economical to pre-
scribe the uniform for the Regular Army as early as practicable. Mr.
Haslett informs me that a bounty was promised these men, but does
not know the amountthinks about $25 or $30. I have, therefore, to
request that you notify me what amount will be paid, and under what
regulations, that I may cause the same to be noted on their muster and
pay rolls. I am just informed that Lamon, special messenger from
Washington, has arrived, and is now conferring with the governor.
I am sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, 6~ommanding.
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
March 26, 1861. -
[General BEAUREGARD:]
Mv DEAR GENERAL: I have read the inclosed, and think it is ve~
appropriate; and if he is not entirely satisfied, you can do no more. I
Page 282
282 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP I
Lamon was authorized to arrange matters, Anderson ought now to say
so, in reply to yours; and if he does not, I shall begin to doubt every-
thing.*
Very truly, with great regard,
F. W. PICKENS.
IIDQRS. PI?~OYISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. 0., March 26, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.;
SIR: The Department letter of the 21st has been received, arid I
inclose you herewith the copy of the letter I have thought proper to
address to Maj. Robert Anderson, with whom I am personally well
acquainted. t His answer will be communicated to the Department as
soon as received, and I have no doubt it will be satisfactory. Mr.
Lamon left here last night, saying that Major Anderson and command
would soon be withdrawn from Fort Sumter in a satisfactory manner.
I am, however, progressing with my offensive and defensive batteries,
which will all be finished and armed to-morrow night or the day after.
I find great difficulty, for want of an ordnance officer, iu properly organ-
izing the armament, & c., of said batteries. I have this day had assigned
to me for that duty Lieutenant Rutledge, South Carolina Navy, who I
hope will be of assistance to me in that department.
As already telegraphed, Capt. W. II. Stevens, of the Engineers, is
not at present required here. He might be usefully employed at Savan-
nah if not wanted elsewhere, or I may soon have need of him for the
defenses of the sea coast of SouthCarolina,whichl may have to order
hereafter.
Four of the Drumumond lights ordered for this harbor have this day
arrived, with the required instructions, a copy of which is herewith
inclosed. No operator could be sent with them. I have procured the
welcome and generous services of Professor Gibbes, of Charleston Col-
lege, for the purpose of instructing a proper person here in their use.
I have no doubt that Professor Riddle, of New Orleans, postmaster,
would be happy to give his assistance in a like manner for the six sent
there, two of which might be sent to Pensacola or some other harbor.
With tour here we shall have enough now.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., March 27, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: I have the honor to inclose you herewith copies of MIaj. Robert
Andersons answer to my letter of the 26th instant, and of my reply to
him4 It will be seen that he distinctly and positively refuses to give
the pledge asked of him. But I consider his answer equivalent to any
*Seems to refer to letter from General Beauregard forwarded by Major Anderson to
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, March 27, p. 222.
t See inclosure No. 1 to Major Andersons letter of March 27, p. 222.
~ See inclosares 2 and 3, Anderson to Thomas, March 27, pp. 222, 223
Page 283
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 283
pledge that might be required of him, for he is, in my opinion, a most
gallant officer, incapable of any act that might tarnish his reputation as
a sol(lier; and, should he ask for any assistance of Governor Pickens or
myself for the removal of his command from this harbor, it will be a
sufficient guarantee that Fort Sumter will be left in its present condi-
tion. At any rate, when he makes the said application, an officer will
be appointed by me to verify the fact and make proper arrangements
with him.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
P. S.You will notice that I preferred writing to him unofficially, so
as to obtain his views first.
B.
IIDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., March 27, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: I have the honor to inclose you herewith a copy of the letter
from Maj. Robert Anderson in answer to mine of yesterday, a copy of
which has already been sent to the Department. It will be seen by
Major Andersons answer, if there be any trath in man, that nothing
like a doubtful course can be feared from him on the evacuation of Fort
Sumter, which ought now to be decided upon in a few days, for this
state of uncertainty ought not to last longer than is necessary to have
all our preparations made to compel him to a surrender, should the
United States Government not be willing to withdraw him peaceably.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WAR DEPARTMENT, A. AND I. G. 0.,
]Jiliontgomery, March 29, 1861.
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Commanding, & c., Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: The Secretary of War directs that you will allow no further
communications between the Government of the United States and Fort
Sumter, unless the written instructions of the intermediary are first sub-
mitted to your inspection, with satisfactory assurances that there are no
verbal instructions inconsistent with those which are written.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 1, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Montgomery, Ala.:
The following telegram just received from Commissioner Crawford:
I am authorized to say that this Government will not undertake to suppiy Sumter
witliout notice to you. My opinion is that tlie President has not the courage to ex
Page 284
284 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
cute the order agreed upon in Cabinet for the evacuation of the fort, but that he in-
tends to shift the responsibility upon Major Anderson, by suffering him to be starved
out. Would it not be well to aid in this by cutting off all supplies0?
CRAWFORD.
Batteries here ready to open Wednesday or Thursday. What instruc-
tions?
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
WAR DEPARTMENT, A. AND I. G. 0.,
Montgomery, April 1, 1861.
Brig. Gen. 0-. T. BEAUREGARD,
Commanding, & c., Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: Capt. W. D. Pender, who is engaged on special service in Bal-
timore, has been directed to acquaint you with the amount of bounty
which was promised to the recruits from that city, referred to in your
communication of the 25th ultimo, in order that you may cause it to
be noted on the muster-rolls, under the head of recruiting expenses.
Captain Pender will also notify you of the condition under which the
recruits will engage to serve. Such of the sixty-two men already exam-
ined and found to be physically disqualified should be sent back to Bal-
timore. The others may be retained if they are capable of being made
good soldiers.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
WASHINGTON, April 2, 1861.
Hon. ROBERT Toolvn3S, Montgomery, Ala.:
The war wing presses on the President; he vibrates to that side.
He has conferred with scveral officers, and naval engineer, supposed
to be in regard to Sumter; perhaps to collecting revenue at New Or-
leans.
Commodore Pendergrast is not at Key West but at Norfolk~ could
not therefore land troops. Senator Dixon conversed fully with Chase
on Saturday; found him much moderated and strongly inclined to peace
policy.
Their form of notice to us may be that of the coward, who gives it 0
when he strikes. Watch at all points. It is said the Pawnee sailed
from this place this evening with three companies of artillery.
MARTIN J. CRAWFORD.
A. B. ROMAN.
CHARLESTON, April 2, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALFcsR:
Captain Foster asks permission to send his mechanics and laborers
from Sumter. Shall it be allowed? I am inclined to object.
0-. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding
Page 285
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 285
MONTGOMERY, April 2, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
No portion of the garrison must be permitted to leave unless all go.
L. P. WALKER.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Montgomery, April 2, 186L
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Charleston Harbor, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: The Government has at no time placed any reliance on assur-
ances by the Government at Washington in respect to the evacuation
of Fort Sumter, or entertained any confidence in the disposition of the
latter to make any concession or yield any point to which it is not
driven by absolute necessity, and I desire that you will govern your-
self generally with strict reference to this as the key to the policy of
the Government of the Confederate States.
You are specially instructed to remit in no degree your efforts to
prevent the re-enforcement of Fort Sumter, an(l to keep yourself in a
state of the amplest preparation and most perfect readiness to repel
invasion, acting in all respectssave only in commencing an assault or
attack, except to repel an invading or re-enforcing forceprecisely as if
you were in the presence of an enemy contemplating to surprise you.
The delays and apparent vacillations of the Washington Govern-
ment make it imperative that the further concession of courtesies such
as have been accorded to Major Anderson and his command, in sup-
plies from the city, must cease; and, in general terms, the status which
you must at once re-establish and rigidly enforce is that of hostile
forces in the presence of each other, and who may at any moment be
in actual conflict; but as past conditions have allowed this Govern-
ment to continue thus far courtesies of personal convenience to Major
Anderson and his officers, it is proper now, as these courtesies are
required to be determined by the necessities of your position, that you
signify in respectful terms to Major Anderson that all communication
with the city from the fort and with the fort from the city, for any
purpose of supply is absolutely inhibited; and after having so notified
that gentleman at the very earliest moment practicable you will make
your surveillance of the harbor and the enforcement of the rule of
instruction indicated in the notice to the commander of Fort Sumter
as rigid as all the means at your command and the most watchful vigi-
lance can secure.
Until the withdrawal of the Commissioners of this Government from
Washingtonan event which may occur at any moment-no opera-
tions beyond what is indicated in the foregoing would be admissible.
Promptly, however, on the receipt by this Government of the intelli-
gence of such withdrawal the Department will transmit to you specific
instructions for your guidance.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. P. WALKER,
Secretary of War
Page 286
286 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [Clxii?. I.
WASHINGTON, April 3, 1861.
Hon. ROBERT ToolwBS, & c., Montgomery, Ala.:
Much activity to-day in the War and Navy Departments. It is said the
Minnesota, at Boston, has been ordered to the mouth of the Mississippi.
Powhatan suddenly put in commission to sail next week. Four com-
panies nowherethree artillery, one sappers and minersordered to New
York. Report says these movements have reference to the San Domingo
question. Pawnee will not be ready for sea until Saturday.
Our intermediary says they dare not deceive him, as they know we do
not rely upon them but upon HIM.
CRAWFORD.
ROMAN.
FORSYTH.
MONTGOMERY, ALA., April 3, 186110 p. m.
General BEAUREGARD:
Minnesota ordered to sea, supposed to be for mouth of Mississippi;
Powhatan to sail next week; Pawnee ordered to sea on Saturday.
Three companies artillery (one of sappers and miners) ordered to New
York; probably for the South. Be on lookout.
L. P. WALKER.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, S. C., April 4, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALIiER, Secretary of War:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
instructions of the 2d instant, in reference to Fort Sumter, and respect-
fully ask to be further instructed in regard to the mails of Major
Anderson, which have been allowed daily up to this time, whether they
shall be continued or limited to once or twice a week.
The batteries are now all complete, but I regret to have to state that
there are but few, if any, well-instructed artillerists on Morris Island
also, that the shells and fuses of the sea-coast guns and columbiads can-
not be entirely relied upon.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WASHINGTON, April 5, 1861.
Hon. ROBERT TooMBS, & c., Montgomery, Ala.:
The movement of troops and preparation on board of vessels of war,
of which you have already been apprised, are continued with the greatest
activity. An important move requiring a formidable military and naval
force is certainly on foot. The statement that this armament is intended
for St. Domingo may be a mere ruse.
We are, however, most creditably informed that Commodore String-
ham, who takes charge of the squadron, sails for St. Domingo.
Having no confidence in the administration, we say, be ever on your
guard. Glad to hear that you are ready. The notice promised us will
come at the last moment if the fleet be intended for our waters.
CRAWFORD.
ROMAN.
FORSYTH
Page 287
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 287
[APRIL 6, 1861.]
Hon. ROBERT TooiunS, Secretary, & c., Montgomery, Ala.:
No change in the activity of the warlike armaments mentioned yester-
day. The minor that they are destined against Pickens and perhaps
Sumter is getting every day stronger. We know nothing positive on
the subject, but advise equal activity on yonr part to receive them if
they come. We have not yet been notified of the movement, but the
notification may come when they are ready to start.
CRAWFORD.
FORSYTH.
ROMAN.
WASHINGToN, April 6, 1861.
Hon. A. G. MA~RATH, Charleston, S. C.:
Positively determined not to withdraw Anderson. Supplies go im-
mediately, supported by naval force under Stringham if their landing
be resisted.
A FRIEND.
[Indorsements.]
To CHARLESTON OFFICE:
The above is by a reliable man.
CALD WELL.
MONDAY, April 8.Sent by James E. Harvey by telegraph last Sat-
urday morning.
CHARLESTON, April 6, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
The following telegraph I have just received from Washington:
Positively determined not to withdraw Anderson. Supplies go immediately, sup-
ported by a naval force under Stringliam if their landing is resisted.
A FRIEND.
Governor and General Beauregard visiting the posts in the harbor,
and will not be here for a few hours. In their absence I telegraphed to
Washington to know who was the person signing himself A Friend.
The reply satisfies me that the person is high in the confidence of the
Government at Washington. Mr. Wigfall, who is with me, concurs in
the propriety of giving you notice of it without delay.
A. G. MAGRATH.
WASHINGTON, April 6, 1861.
To Hon. A. G. MAc& RATH, JAMES L. PETIGRu,
B. F. DUNKIN, aiid Miss S. C. HARVEY, Charleston, S. C.:
Order issued for withdrawal of Andersons command. Scott declares
it military necessity. This is private. JAMES E. HARYEY.
Hon. A. G. MAcUIATH, Charleston, S. C.:
Great efforts making to reconsider withdrawal, but will fail. Final
consultation to-morrow.
JAMES E. HARVEY
Page 288
288 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
Hon. A. G. iVIAGRATH, Charleston, S. C.:
Final order still reserved. No decision reached in council yesterday,
though six for withdrawal and one against.
Is it true your people will oppose voluntary withdrawal and demand
capitulation ~ If so, friends of peac~ here are powerless.
JAMES E. HARVEY.
WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,
Brig. Gen. G-. T. BEAUREGARD, Montgomery, April 6, 1861.
L1ommanding Charleston Harbor, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: Your letter of the 4th instant has been received. In reply to
yonr inqniry as to Major Andersons mails, I have to say that the policy
of the Government is most decided that there shall be such a surveil-
lance of Charleston Harbor and of Fort Sumter as shall assure this
Government that the latter is, for all military purposes, entirely isolated.
The courtesies which have been accorded to the commander of that
fortress have been, in the opinion of this Department, taken advantage
of in some cases by persons whose object in visiting Fort Sumter was
chiefly to obtain information of the state of our defenses, to be commu-
nicated to the Government at Washington. Acting, then, on the leading
ideas that the military isolation of Fort Sumter and the prevention of
all possible espionage by the Washington Government are absolutely
required, you are directed, while allowing Major Anderson to receive
his mails, to exercise such instructive discretion as will secure the ends
in view.
Minute instructions, covering every possible case, cannot, of course,
be given you, but you are directed to exclude possibility of the admis-
sion of any one who may be sent by or be favorable to the Government
at Washington, always excepting such messenger or bearer of dispatches
from that Government as you may be fully assured shall be conveying
orders for the surrender or evacuation of the fortress.
You are specifically instructed to permit no one of the persons now in
Fort Sumter to depart therefrom; and to secure absolute compliance
with this requirement you will u~e the utmost vigilance and apply all
the means at your command. And in this connection the Department
would ask your attention to a telegraphic statementgenerally published
under date of April 4th, to the effect that Lieutenant Talbot, an officer
of the garrison of Fort Sumter, had been allowed to depart therefrom.
As this is in apparent conflict with the instructions communicated to
you by telegraph, the Department presumes that there were special
reasons, affecting the public interest, which, in your judgment, made
the case properly exceptional, and I shall therefore be pleased to be
made acquainted with the circumstances.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. ~. WALKER.
[APRIL 8, 1861.]
AN ORDINANCE to transfer to the Government of the Confederate States of
America the use and occupancy of the forts, arsenals, navy-yards, custom-houses, and
other public sites within the limits of this State.
We, the people of South Carolina, in convention assembled, do ordain
and declare, and it is hereby ordained and declared by the authority of
the same, that the Government of the Confederate States of America i
Page 289
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCCONFEDERATE. 289
hereby authorized to occupy, use, and hold possession of all forts, navy-
yards, arsenals, custom-houses, and other public sites within the limits of
this State, and th~ir appurtenances, lately in the possession of the United
States of America, together with Fort Sumter, and to repair, rebuild,
and control the same at its discretion, until this ordinance be repealed
by a convention of the people of this State.
iDone at Charleston, the 8th day of April, in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and sixty-one.
D. F. JAMISON,
President.
Attest:
B. F. ARTHUR, Clerk.
WASHINGTON, April 8, 1801.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD:
Accounts are uncertain, because of the constant vacillation of this
Government. We were reassured yesterday that the status of Sumter
would not be changed without previous notice to Governor Pickens,
but we have no faith in them. The war policy prevails in the Cabinet
at this hour.
M. J. CRAWFORD.
CHARLESTON, April 8, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
Authorized messenger from Lincoln just informed Governor Pickens
and myself that provisions would be sent to Sumter peaceably, other-
~vise by force.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
MONTGOMERY, April 8, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Under no circumstances are you to allow provisions to be sent to
Fort Sumter.
L. P. WALKER.
CHARLESTON, April 8, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Andersons provisions stopped yesterday. No answer from him. I
am calling out balance of contingent troops.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
April 8, 1861.
[General BEAUREGARD:]
DEAR GENERAL: I inclose the within copy of Major Anderson~s.note.*
Please say to the Secretary of War that we thought detaching an officer
from the garrison was weakening its efficiency and not taking much from
the consumption of food. Tell him that you as well as myself saw the
* See Anderson to Pickens, April 4, p, 238.
19 R
Page 290
290 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
foolish firing, and both regretted it, and that you immediately issued
orders as to the future firing, & c., and that the captairiin charge of the
watch-vessel, the Petrel, was discharged for his neglect of duty, & c.
In great haste, but most sincerely,
F. W. PICKENS.
IIDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., April 8, 1861.
General L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Montgomery, Ala.:
SIR: The War Department letter of the 6th instant has been received.
I send herewith a copy of the letter addressed yesterday to Major Robert
Anderson, stopping his provisions from this city, in obedience to the
instructions of the iDepartment.* He has not yet answered it, probably
on account of the prevailing bad weather, or perhaps he wishes to await
the orders of the United States Government.
Lieutenant Talbot was aLlowei to go to Washington in order to
diminish as much as practicable the number of Major Andersons officers,
and in the hope that he would communicate to the Government at Wash-
ington their true condition in Fort Sumter, which Governor Pickens
and myself have reasons to believe is not satisfactory to them.
On account of the unfortunate publication this morning of the pro-
ceedings of the state Convention of South Carolina, containing a detailed
report of the State secretary of war, giving the exact condition, strength,
and number of batteries and troops collected for the defense of this har.
bor, I have called out the balance of the five thousand men to which
I have been limited by my instructions of the 1st ultimo.a measure
rendered still more necessary on account of the warlike preparations at
present being made by the United ,States Government with so much
mystery.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
WAR DEPARMENT, C. S. A.,
]Ifontgomery, April 8, 1861.
His Excellency F. W. PICKENS, Charleston S. C.:
SIR: The discontinuance by the United States of negotiations with
the Commissioners representing this Government, of which doubtless you
have before this been made aware, leaves no doubt as to the policy we
should pursue.
A large force will probably, and if at all, almost immediately, be needed
to resist the coercive measures of the Washington administration. To
meet this condition of affairs, this Department, acting with reference to
the power vested in the Executive by the act of the Congress entitled An
act to l)rovide for the public defense, suggests to your excellency the
necessity of calling at once for three thousand volunteers, to be drilled,
equipped, and held in instant readiness to meet any requisition from
this Department. These troops will, ~f course, not be receiving pay un.
til they shall be mustered into service, but the emergency is so pressing
that your excellency willfully appreciate the great importance of thorough
preparation, especially in regard to instant capacity to move. A simi
*~See inclosure to Anderson to Thomas, April 7, Union Correspondence, & e., p. 248
Page 291
ChAP. L]
291
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE.
lar request has been addressed to the Executive of the Confederate
States. Asking an early reply to the suggestions above ~nade,
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. P. WALKER.
(Similar letters to the governor of Florida, Tallahassee; the governor
of Georgia; governor of Louisiana, Baton Rouge; governor of Texas,
Austin; governor of Alabama, Montgomery; governor of Mississippi.)
APRIL 8, 1861.
I am directed by the President of the United States to notify you
to expect an attempt will be made to supply Fort Sumter with provis-
ions only, and that if such attempt be not resisted no effort to throw in
men, arms, or ammunition will be made without further notice, or in case
of an attack upon the fort.
The above was communicated to us on the evening of April 8 by
Robert S. Chew, esq., of the State Department in Washington, and
Captain Talbot stated that it was from the President of the United
States, as did Mr. Chew, and was delivered to him on the 6th instant at
Washington, and this was read in their presence and admitted.
F. W. PICKENS.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
MONTGOMERY, April 9, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Major Andersons mails must be stopped. The fort must be completely
isolated.
L. P. WALKER.
CHARLESTON, April 9, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
The mails have already been stopped. G. T. BEAUREGARD.
ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE,
Montgomery, April 9, 1861.
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Confederate Forces, Charleston, k~. C.:
GENERAL: It is much to be desired that the recruits sent from Balti-
more to Charleston should remain with your command and be provided
for at present by the arrangements made by Captain Lee, or else by
appointing him as acting assistant quartermaster for the troops of the
Confederate States under your command, in addition to his present
duties, which would involve very little increase of labor on his part,
and afford the advantage of placing funds in his hands for disbursement
on account of the military service of the Confederate States. If possible
you will please make this arrangement, or else select some other com-
petent officer of the ariuy of the Confederate States for the same pur-
pose. It is not deemed necessary at present to furnish the supplies for
the full equipment of these recruits.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General
Page 292
292 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Headquarters, April 9, 1861.
To the PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES:
Mx DEAR SIR: I send by the bearer important dispatches to the
Secretary of War, and beg to call your immediate attention to them.
The bearer is Colonel ilayne, an aide of mine, and will return imme-
diately to me. If you have anything particular to General Beauregard
or myself, you can trust it to him, and he will bring it back immediately.
Siiice I inclosed the dispatch to the Secretary of War Major Anderson
has written a polite note to General Beauregard, requesting that the
letters taken from the mail might be returned, as he had been notified
that his mails would be stopped entirely. The general returned for an-
swer that the private letters had been sent to their destination, but the
official letters were sent to the Confederate Government, because rumors,
well established, indicated that Mr. Fox had violated his faith to me in
visiting the fort, under the guarantee of Captain llartstene, who went
with him. The pledge was that he visited Major Anderson by author-
ity, for pacific purposes entirely. You see that the present scheme for
supplying the fort is Mr. Foxs. It is thought that the attempt will be
made to-night, and we have doubled our steamboats on the harbor and
bar.
Since I wrote to the War Department we have increased the forces
on Morris Island to two thousand one hundred men, and ten companies
of fine men arrive to-night, in the next train, of eight hundred men,
and two more regiments arrive to-morrow. We hope to have about six
thousand men there on the harbor batteries and posts. I trust we are
ready, and if they come we will give them a cordial reception, such as
will ring through this country, I think. I hope we are not mistaken;
but, at any rate, we will try and do our duty.
With great esteem, yours, very truly,
F. W. PICKENS.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
Headquarters, April 9, 1861.
ion. Mr. WALKER, Secretary of War:
SIR: At the request of General Beauregard I inclose the within. I
took possession of the mails this morning from Sumter, and retained the
packages marked official. These are all sent you. The private let-
ters are all sent, as directed, to their owners. I did this because I con-
sider a state of war is now inaugurated by the authorities at Washing-
ton, and all information of a public nature was necessary to us. The
mails and all intercourse of any kind with Sumter are now forbidden,
and I immediately refused Captain Talbot any interview with Major
Anderson, and also his request to be restored to his command in the fort.
I called in General Beauregard, and made Captain Talbot and Mr. Chew
repeat in his presence what they had said and what the former desired
as to Sumter, and General Beauregard entirely and immediately con-
curred.
You will see by these letters of Major Anderson how it is intended to
supply the fort; but by Gods providence we will, I trust, be prepared
for them; and if they approach with war vessels also, I think you will
hear of as bloody a fight as ever occurred. We now have three thou-
sand seven hundred men at the different posts and batteries, and will
have by to-morrow three thousand more, which I have called down.
From my calculation, I think they will have about two thousand si
Page 293
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.OONFEDERATE. 293
hundred, and will attempt to land in launch-boats with 24 and 12 pound-
ers, and it will probably be on the lower end of Morris Island, next the
light-house. If so, we will have a fine rifle regiment to give them a
cordial welcome from behind sand hills (that are natural fortifications),
and two iDahigren guns will be right on them, besides four 24-pounders
in battery. I have four hundred fine Enfield rifles that have been prac-
ticed at nine hundred yards, and on that island, altogether, we have
now one thousand nine hundred and fifty men, and are increasing it to.
day.
There has just arrived on the bar a fine rifled cannon from Liverpool,
of the latest maker (Blakely gun), an improvement upon Armstrong, of
steelrollsorcoils,withanelevationofsevenandone-halfdegreestoa
mile, it throws a shell or twelve-pound shot with the accuracy of a
dueling-pistol, and only one and one-half pounds of powder. Such,
they write me, is this gun, and I hope to have it in position to-night.
We expect the attack about 6 oclock in the morning, on account of the
tide.
Very respectfully,
F. W. PICKENS.
Llnclosure No. 1.]
FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 8, 1861.
General JOSEPH G. TOTTEN,
tJhief Engineer U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: The increased activity and vigilance of the investing force,
as reported yesterday, still continues. Three large traverses are nearly
completed on the front, from battery No. 3 to 5, on Morris Island, and
traverses are also being erected in the interior of battery No. 5. Addi-
tions of sand. bags are being made to the covering of the magazine, be-
tween Nos. 2 and 3, and to the left flank of No. 1, where I think they
are constructing a service magazine.
I am busily at work constructing splinter-proof shelters on the terre-
plein. I obtain timber by taking the gun carriages to pieces, and form
the covering of the 2-inch iron pieces for embrasures, as seen below. The
plates are spiked on, so as to be securely retained in their places, even
if struck by a shell, which I am confident it will turn.
Our supplies are entirely cut off from the city, and those on hand are
very limited.
The besieging forces worked all day yesterday, whenever the intervals
between the showers of rain would allow.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. FOSTER,
Captain, Engineers.
P. S.I received yesterday a letter from the Secretary of War to
Major Anderson, which, by mistake, had been enveloped to me. I
handed it to Major Anderson without reading.
Respectfully, & c.,
J. G. FOSTER,
[Inclosure No. 2.] Captain, Enginee~s.
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General:
DEAR COLONEL: In another envelope I shall send a No. 96, which
you will be pleased to destroy.
That God will preserve our beloved country, is the heart-felt prayer
of your friend,
R.A
Page 294
294 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. I.
No. 96.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 8, 1861.
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the South Carolinians have
since about noon yesterday been very actively engaged in strengthening
their works on Morris island. I pray that God will avert the storm
which seems impending over us, and restore amicable and permanently-
pacific relations between the States who still stick to the old Union
and those who have formed another Government in the South.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding.
P. S.I omitted acknowledging the receipt of the letter from the hon-
orable Secretary of the 4th instant.
[Inclosuro No. 3.]
No. 96.] FORT SUMTER, S. C., April 8, 1861.
Col. L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. IS. Army:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the re~umption of work
yesterday (Sunday) at various points on Morris Island, and the vigorous
prosecution of it this morning, apparently strengthening nearly all the
batteries which are nuder the fire of our guns, shows that they either
have received some news from Washington which has put them on the
qut vsre or that they have received orders from Montgomery to com-
mence operations here. I am preparing by the side of my barbette guns
protection for our men from the shells, which will be almost continuously
bursting over or in our work.
I had the honor to receive by yesterdays mail the letter of the hon-
orable Secretary of War, dated April 4, and confess that what he there
states surprises me very greatly, following as it does and contradicting
so positively the assurance Mr. Crawford telegraphed he was authorized
to make. I trust that this matter will be at once put in a correct light,
as a movement made now, when the South has been erroneously in-
formed that none such will be attempted, would produce most disastrous
results throughout our country.
It is, of course, now too late for me to give any advice in reference to
the proposed scheme of Captain Fox. I fear that its result cannot fail
to be disastrous to all concerned. Even with his boat at our walls
the loss of life (as I think I mentioned to Mr. Fox) in unloading her
will more than pay for the good to be accomplished by the expedition,
which keeps us, if I can maintain possession of this work, out of position,
surrounded by strong works, which must be carried to make this fort
of the least value to the United States Government.
We have not oil enough to keep a light in the lantern for one night.
The boats will have, therefore, to rely at night entirely upon other
marks. I ought to have been informed that this expedition was to
come. Colonel Lamons remark convinced me that the idea, merely
hinted at to me by Captain Fox, would not be carried out. We shall
strive to do our duty, thongh I frankly say that my heart is not in the
war which I see is to be thus commenced. That God will still avert it,
and cause us to resort to pacific measures to maintain our rights, is my
ardent prayer.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT ANDERSON,
Major, First Artillery, Commanding
Page 295
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 295
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, S. C., April 9, 1861.
Hon. ft F. JAMISON,
President of the Convention, State of South Carolina:
SIR: I had the honor this morning of receiving, through a committee
of your State Convention, its resolutions, expressing confidence in my
professional skill, courage, and sound judgment, and in the efficient co-
operation of the several members of my staff and other assistants, mili-
tary and naval, and tendering to the individuals designated, and to the
various forces in the service, the thanks of the State for their successful
efforts thus far in protecting the honor and interests of the State.*
Allow me, sir, through you, to thank the honorable body over which
you preside for this evidence of their kindness to myself and assistants,
and to the forces under my orders. I feel highly gratified that in so
short a time it has been my good fortune to merit your approbation in
the discharge of my offi~ial duties, and it is a source of pride for me to
state that I feel much indebted for the expression of your resolutions to
the active and willing co-operation of every one under my command.
Never have I seen a more universal exhibition of determination and
self-denial on the part of individuals for the promotion of any cause than
that of the forces under my command, for the accomplishment of the
great object we have in view. Encouraged by the great trust reposed
in them, I can confidently express the hope that all tinder my command
will continue to merit your approbation. It will be my pleasure to com-
municate to the troops and others under my orders the substance of your
flattering resolutions.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
HDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C. April 9, 1861.
Col. M. GREGG, Commanding, Morris Island, S. C.:
SIR: I have ordered two 12-pounders and a battery of 6-pounders to
be sent to you this day, to be used in the defense of Vinegar Hill and
Light-house Hills, and in preventing a landing on the low ground be-
tween them. Have them put in position forthwith, and look out for to-
night or to-morrow morning. Caution Colonel De Saussure about not
throwing away the shot of his batteries. Be careful that the sand does
not fill up the holes of the nipples of your muskets and Enfleld rifles.
Your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HDQRS. PROY. FORCES CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 9, 1861.
Capt. G. S. JAMES, Commanding Fort Johnson, S. C.
CAPTAIN: The brigadier-general commanding directs that you send
to-night to Legares Landing, on Schooner Creek, twenty, or, if practi
* See Beauregard to Walker, April 10, p.298
Page 296
296 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
cable, twenty-five men from your command, under the command of a
commissioned officer; this detachment to guard that point during the
night and return to you in the morning. You will send the same or
an equivalent detachment to the same point every night until further
orders.
I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. W. FEILtGUS& N,
Captain, and Aide-de-Camp.
IIDQRS. PROY. FORCES CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 9, 1861.
Capt. F. L. CHILDS, Commanding Castle Pinekney, S. C.:
CAPTAIN: The brigadier-general commanding directs that in con-
sequence of the difficulty of transporting your command to where it
was ordered, you will hold it in readiness to embark this evening,
about 7 p. in., on board three steamboats, that are to report to Captain
Hartstene for duty in the outer harbor, at the rate of twenty-five men
to each steamer, each man to be armed with his musket and take with
him forty rounds of ammunition, which will be sent to you. These
detachments will be returned in the morning and will hold themselves
in readiness for similar duty every night until farther orders.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. W. FERGUSON,
Captain, and Aide-de-Camp.
IIDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., April 9, 1861.
Col. MAXCY GREGG,
Commanding ]Jforris Island, Charleston Harbor, S. C.:
SIR: I have ordered Major Whiting, of the Engineers, to represent to
you what I consider the best positions for locating the troops on Morris
island, resulting from his reconnaissances. You Will please consult with
him freely on the subject, and afford him all the assistance he may re-
quire for the construction of the light-house battery, and such other
works as may be required for the defense of the south end of said island,
and of the strong position at or near Vinegar Hill. Should you have
any disposable field pieces you will so locate them as to sweep the fiat
ground between the latter position and the Light-house Hills. Re-enforce-
ments will continue to be sent to you as fast as practicable, to the extent
of one or two regiments more besides the Seventeenth. Should you be
attacked before their arrival, you will make a desperate stand on the
Light-house Hills and at Vinegar Hill, which are the keys of Morris
Island.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, 6ommanding
Page 297
CHAP. I.]
297
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE.
HDQRS. PROY. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 9, 1861.
Col. J. J. PETTIGREW, Commanding Sullivans Island, S. C.:
SIR: You were informed last night that you were to hold your regi-
ment in readiness for any change of station that circumstances might
dictate. This order should not preclude you from maintaining all your
present arrangements for the defense of Sullivans Island, for it is im-
possible to state now when you may be called upon to move from your
present position. I may even have to strengthen the present forces on
that island.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
P. S.Have you put that flat-boat in position, as already directed, in
the Sullivan Creek ~
G.T.B.
WASHINGTON, D. C~, April 9, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
The messenger speaks doubtless by authority. He gives the promised
notice to Governor Pickens. Diplomacy has failed. The sword must
now preserve our independence. ~Our gallant countrymen will do their
duty.
MARTIN J. CRAWFORD.
MONTGOMERY, April 10, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
If you have no doubt of the authorized character of the agent who
communicated to you the intention of the Washington Government to
supply Fort Sumter by force you will at once demand its evacuation,
and if this is refused proceed, in such manner as you may determine,
to reduce it. Answer.
L. P. WALKER.
CHARLESTON, April 10, 1861.
L. P. ~TALKER:
The demand will be made to-morrow at 12 oclock.
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General.
MONTGOMERY, April 10, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Unless there are special reasons connected with your own condition,
it is considered proper that you should make the demand at an earlier
hour.
L. P. WALKER.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 10, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER;
The reasons are special for 12 oclock.
G. T. BEAUREGARD
Page 298
298 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAr. I.
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, S. C., April 10, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
SIR: I have the honor to transmit copies of a set of complimentary
resolutions, and oC a resolution placing all the forces that may be called
into service in this State under my orders, passed by the Convention of
the State of South Carolina.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant~
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
P. S.I am doing all in my power to prevent re-enforcements by
barges to Sumter to-night or to-morrow night.
G. T. B.
[Inclosures.]
Resolved, That this Convention approves of the action of the governor,
in placing the forces for the military defense of Charleston under the
command of General Beanregard, and that he be authorized to call into
the field immediately such number of the volunteer regiments, raised
under the act of assembly, as General Beauregard may require for the
operations under his control; the whole force to be placed under the
command of General Beauregard, or such other general officer as may
be ordered to the same command by. the authorities of the Confederate
States of America.
[Adopted Monday, April 5, 1861.]
Resolved, That this Convention, on behalf of the people of this State, re-
pose entire confidence in the eminent professional skill, courage, and sound
judgment of Brig. Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard, and in the intelligent and
efficient co-operation of the various members of his staff, and other assist-~
ants, military and naval,, and respectfully tender to them, and to the
various forces in the service, and individuals designated, the thanks of
the State for their successful efforts thus far, to protect the honor and
interests of the State.
Resolved, That if Fort Sumter shall fall into the hands of our present
Government, and the harbor of Charleston should be relieved from a11
hostile occupation or obstruction, although without any actual conflict
of arms, such result will be not the less achieved by our forces aforesaid,
and their wise and effective operations.
Resolved, That the foregoing resolutions be communicated to General
Beauregard, with a request that he extend them to the various Ngi-
ments, battalions, and separate companies, and to his staff and assist-
ants, in such form and manner as he shall judge expedient.
[Adopted Monday, April 5, 1861.]
MORRIS ISLAND, S. C., April 10, 1861.
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD,
Commanding, Headquarters Provisional Forces, Charleston, S. C.:
Mv DEAR GENERAL: There are two 4-pounder pieces here, with
their limbers. There is a caisson in the city. There is also ammuni-
tion. These guns are very light, and belong to the Citadel Cadets, who
are, I believe, instructed in their use. Put horses to it, and it will mak
Page 299
CHAP. I.]
299
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE.
a most excellent addition to onr force against a landing. I regard this
as very important, and the sooner it~is carried out the better.
I learned this morning, with surprise, that the Dahlgren had been
dismounted at Sullivaus Island, my countermand of your orders not
having been forwarded, as it seems. In this case it must either be sent
over here or at once remounted in its former position; the latter is, of
course, the quickest. I think Stevens irou battery and the two 42s a
sufficient fire on the gorge. 1 send this up by Captain Jones, who
returns immediately.
Very respectfully, ~. II. ~. WHITING,
Major, Engineers.
STEAMER GORDON,
Off Sumter, 5. 0., April 10, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD:
DEAR GENERAL: I have had under my charge during the night, in
addition to my three steamers, the Charleston. The Seabrook came
down about 8 oclock and received orders, but I knew nothing of her
during the night. She did not obey my orders. This morning I saw
her auchored away to the southward. The Catawba has been all night
in the offing. It is my opinion that Sumter can be~ relieved, by boats
from vessels outside ofthe bars, on any night as dark as the last, or, if
we have to take it, you had better be making a beginning. If a vessel
of war is placed oft each bar, when Sumter opens I will lose all my
steamers, as there will be no escape for me. Therefore, before firing,
these steamers should be called in. If the steamers are to guard the
entrances, please send them down before dark, that they may be posi-
tioned. Yesterday I looked into Bulls Bay, at Stono, and saw nothing.
Excuse my bad writing, my hands are so cold, and my light is so bad
that I can scarcely see. I have ordered the Charleston up.
Respectfully,
II. J. HARTSTENE.
IIDQRS. P.ROYISJONAL AR1vrY CONFEDERATE STATES.
Charleston, S. C., April 10, 1861.
Maj. W. II. C. WHITING, Engineers, Morris Island, S. C.:
DEAR MAJOR: Your note of this day from the wharf has just been
handed to me. I have ~jnst ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Ripley to put
that Dahlgren gun in position between the wharf and extreme westerly
point of Sullivans Island7 to fire on the landing of the westerly face of
Sumter and its postern. I have ordered those two additional 24-pounders
to be sent forthwith to Cummings Point. Do the best with them, and
caution Colonels Gregg and De Saussure to be on the lookout to-night.
To-morrow morning~5 sun must see us victorious.
Yours, truly, G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding
Page 300
300 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
IIDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
General ~. G. M. DUNOYANT, Oharleston, 5. 0., April 10, 1861.
Commanding Sullivans Island, S. C.;
Mv DEAR GENERAL: Please tell Colonel Ripley I have received his
letter of this day to Major Jones. I appreciate all the difficulties he
refers to, but this is one of those moments when the word impossible
must be ignored, for the fate of Anderson and Sumter depends upon
the result of this nights firing. Captain llartstene and the naval offi-
cers are of opinion that the barges can pass our batteries in a dark night,
hence we must be prepared to fire on their landing place, which will be
the western face and postern of Sumter, not seen by an~ of our guns.
Captain llartstene is going to light up the entrance of the harbor with
floating light-wood fires, and our Druinmond lights must be set in active
operation as soon as the alarm of boats are coming is given. Up to
that time they must be kept ready for operations.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
IIDQUS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston~ S. C., April 10, 1861.
General R. G. M. DUNOVANT, Sullivans island, S. C.:
DEAR GENERAL: From all the information we can receive it is prob-
able that the attempt to relieve and provision Sumter will be made to-
night in barges, through, probably, the Swash Channel. I have sent
verbal orders to Ripley a moment ago to endeavor to put forthwith that
dismounted Dahlgren gun (now on the Sullivan Wharf) in position near
the extreme end of said island, and then to construct a hasty parapet
in front of it. Its main object is to enfilade the landing of the western
face of Sumter, and the postern in that angle, for that is where the dis-
embarkation is going to take place. Will you see at once to the execu-
tion of these instructions l Then I wish Captain Hamilton to mark out
the best position for his battery, just outside of said western point of
Sullivans Island, for the same purpose as that already indicated by me
for the Dahlgren gun, and to let me know when he will require a steam-
boat to report to him for that object. He must be careful to put his bat-
tery as near the point as practicable, so as to avoid the heavier fire of
Sumter.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Oommanding.
HDQRS. PROY. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, ]Jliontgomery, Ala.:
Sin: I transmit herewith, for the information of the Department, a
copy of my note of this morning to Major Anderson, commanding at
Fort Sumter, demanding the surrender of that fort to the Confederate
Government, together with a copy of his reply thereto.* As soon as
See inclosures to Andersons report, p. 13
Page 301
ChAr. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 301
his answer was received a telegraphic dispatch (a copy of which is in-
closed) was sent to you, communicating its purport, and asking for yonr
instructions. I regret to add here that the new levies at Morris Island
are not in as complete a state of organization as I desire; but I hope, in
the event of an attempt to land by the enemy, that I will be able to
give you a satisfactory account of them.
I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
[Inclosure.]
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
Major Anderson replies: I have the honor to acknowledge the
receipt of your communication demanding the evacuation of this fort,
and to say in reply thereto that it is a demand with which I regret
that my sense of honor and of my obligations to my Government pre-
vent my compliance. He says verbally: I will await the first shot,
and if you do not batter us to pieces we will be starved out in a few
days.
Answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
MONTGOMERY, April 11, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Do not desire needlessly to bombard Fort Sumter. If Major Ander-
son will state the time at which, as indicated by him, he will evacuate,
and agree that in the mean time he will not use his guns against us
unless ours should be employed against Fort Sumter, you are author-
ized thus to avoid the effusion of blood. If this or its equivalent be
refused, reduce the fort as your judgment decides to be most practi-
cable.
L. P. WALKER.
WASHINGTON, April 11, 1861.
General G. T. BEAUREGARD:
The Tribune of to-day declares the main object of the expedition
to be the relief of Sumter, and that a force will be landed which will
overcome all opposition. ROMAN.
CRAWFORD.
FORSYTH.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 11, 1861.
ROMAN, CRAWFORD, and FORSYTH,
Commissioners ~Jonfederate States, Washington, D. C.:
Evacuation of Fort Sumter will be demanded to-day. If refused,
hostilities will commence to-night. Answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD
Page 302
302 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Ought not demand of Sumter be made also by Commissioners at
Washington for its evacuation?
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
MONTGOMERY April11 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
No. Yours is the only demand to be made.
1.P. WALKER.
CHARLESTON, April 11, 1861.
L. P. WALKER:
Demand sent at 2. Allowed until 6 to answer.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S. C.,
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD, Commanding: April 11, 1861.
M~ iDEAR GENERAL: It is absolutely necessary that some assistance
be sent here, in the Adjutant-Generals DepartmentI mean of the
kind that will be usefuL I am expected to be engineer and everything
else. The regimental organization (mixed up of infantry and riflemen,
without bayonets) cannot be preserved. Cannot you take charge, or
at least come here and see the state of affairs? We must have a clerk
experienced. Must have an order book, stationery, & c. Transportation
is wanted. Horses are required for officers, staff; and orderlies (at least,
half a dozen), especially if yout come down.
Colonel Gregg has 1,100 men; Colonel Cunningham, 418; Colonel
Kershaw, between 300 and 500in all, 2,000, exclusive of artillery.
Orders have been issued for all the batteries to be in readiness, but with
the exception of Colonel Greggs I find great confuision in the new re-
enforcements.
Very truly, yours,
W. H. C. WHITING.
MORRIS ISLAND, S. C.,
[General BEAUREGARD:] April 11, 18614 p. m.
GENERAL: We are ready, perhaps, to open fire, but we are not
ready to support it. For Gods sake have this post inspected by your-
self?, or some one else competent, before you open fire. I am alone
here, as you know, and heretofore have been exclusively occupied with
the construction of batteries. De Saussure complains that he has not
men enough to work his guns for any length of time, and Kershaws
force is helter-skelter, having just arrived. Cunninghams is but little
better. Both are badly supplied with cartridges. A full and efficient
staff~ is needed. There are no regulars here at all. I can say but little
now. The general agrees with me in begging you to examine this
position.
W. H. C. WHITING
Page 303
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 303
HDQRS. PRovISIoNAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, S. C., April 11, 1861.
Maj. W. II. C. WHITING,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Morris Island, S. C.:
MAJOR: Your letter and note of this day are just received. Things
always appear worst at first sight wheu not perfect. We cannot delay
now. I think you will have all day to-morrow to organize. I am, how-
ever, surprised that Lieutenant-Colonel De Saussure should not have
men enough, when ten days ago I told him to call for any number he
might require. General Simons must supply that deficiency; but I am
of the opinion that two thousand Americans ought to beat, on favorable
ground, twice that number of troops landing. Remember New Orleans.
Moreover, to-morrow you will have another regiment. I send you
Captains Winder and Allston, and two of the best men as clerks from
Winders company. Call on Colonel Cunningham for one or more men
from his regiment as clerks. Major Trapier has been ordered as chief
engineer on Morris Island, to relieve you of that duty. Colonel Gregg
has more ammunition than you can all require.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
P. S.My duties are so important here I cannot leave at present, but
will be with you when the fighting commences.
G.T.B.
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
April 11, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD:
DEAR GENERAL: I inclose the within that you may see what General
Bonham offers. His command is confined to the volunteer regiments,
ordered into service under a bill to raise ten thousand volunteers in
reserve. Three of his regiments are ordered here now. One difficulty
I apprehend in his command is that General Dunovant will object,
perhaps, to his command over him; but this is noth,ing, if you desire
Bonham to command the whole as major-general. Yet, under the reso-
lutions of the Convention, reporting to you for orders as commander of
all, confirmed by myself, I will order him to report to you, with all his
staff, and make a special order for him. Perhaps he might be of great
service in bringing all into one command for you, and I know he would
fight like a true soldier. Besides, he has knowledge, derived from actual
service in Mexico, and stands high in the State. But, general, you must
candidly say if it is suitable to you, for at this critical juncture I desire
to do nothing but what is agreeable to you.
With great esteem, yours, truly, F. ~. PICKENS.
[Inclosure.]
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 11, 1861.
Governor PICKENS:
SIR: Three regiments of the division of the South Carolina Volun-
teers, of which you have been pleased to appoint me major-general,
have been ordered into the field. I have the honor, therefore, respect-
fully, to ask the command of those troops, together with such as ma
Page 304
304 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
be associated with them. Having learned that the Convention of the
State has made General Beauregard commander of all the State troops
which have been or are likely to be ordei~ed into service in and about
Charleston Harbor, I take pleasure in saying I will eheerfully report to
that able and distinguished officer.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. L. BONHAM,
]Jliajor- General of Volunteers, Division of South Carolina.
HDQRS. PROY. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 11, 1861.
His Excellency Gov. F. W. PICKENS, Charleston, S. C.:
SIR: I inclose you herewith the copy of the orders referred to in your
letter of this morning. The copy of this days instructions, relative to
the harbor lights, & c., have already been communicated to you.
With regard to your suggestion, relative to the application of Major
General Bonham for service under my orders (an application which adds
so much to the high reputation of that gallant and distinguished officer),
J beg to state that they cannot at present be carried into effect; but, as
soon as sufficient force shall have been collected on Morris Island or
elsewhere to form two brigades thereat, I shall be most happy to accept
his proffered services.
I remain, sir, very respectfully,, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Bri~qadier- General, Commanding.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, April 11, 1861.
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD:
DEAR SIR: In corroboration of the information which I am told you
have already received, Captain Davenport, of the pilot-boat Palmetto,
reports that he saw the Harriet Lane this afternoon, making towards
this city with speed, until within about fifteen miles of the bar, when
she hove to. That then he was about two miles from her, when he
distinctly recognized her. He says he has no doubt about her identity,
as he knows her well.
I am, dear sir, respectfully yours,
D. F. JAMISOK.
HEADQUARTERS, CHARLESTON, S. C., April 11, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, C. S. A.:
SIR: I am in receipt of your two communications of 8th instant, and
note contents. In reply to the suggestion of yonr Department of the
necessity of calling at once for three thousand volunteers, to be drilled,
equipped, and held in instant readiness to meet any requisition from
this Department, I have to say the necessary orders have been issued
to carry out the same as far as this State is concerned. One regiment,
containing twelve companies, will concentrate as soon as practicable a
Page 305
CHAP. I.]
CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE.
305
Columbia, to be there quartered, drilled, and prepared for orders to
move to any point desired. Two companies of this regiment will be
drilled as artillery, and two other frill regiments are ordered to hold
themselves in readiness for immediate service.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. W HCKENS.
GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. PROVISIONAL FORCES,
No. 13. Charleston, 5. C., April 11, 1861.
I. Brig. Gen. James Simons, S. C. V., having been ordered into serv-
ice by the governor of the State, and having reported to the brigadier-
general commanding for duty, is assigned to the command of the forces
on Morris Island, whither he will repair without delay and assume the
comman(l.
II. Maj. W. II. C. Whiting, Corps of Engineers, C. S. A., is appointed
acting assistant adjutant and itispector general of the forces on said
island, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. He will report
to Brigadier-General Simons.
By order of Brigadier-General Beauregard: D. R. JONES,
Assistant Adjutant- General.
MONTGOMERY, April 12, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
What was Major Andersons reply to the proposition contained in my
dispatch of last nighd
L. P. WALKER.
L. P. WALKER: CHARLESTON, S. C., April 12, 1861..
He would not consent. I write to-day.
G. T. BEAUREGARD..
HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL FORCES,
Charleston, S. C., April 12, 1861..
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
SIR: I have the honor to transmit the inclosed copy of a correspond-
ence with Major Anderson, in consequence of which our fire was
opened upon Fort~umter at 4.30 oclock this morning, as already com-
municated to you by telegraph.* The pilots reported to me last even-
lug that a steamer, supposed to be the Harriet Lane, had appeared off
the harbor. She approached slowly, and was lying off the main entrance,
some ten or twelve miles, when the pilot came in.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, 61omrnanding.
20 R R
* For inclosures referred to see Andersons report, pp. 1216
Page 306
OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C.
306 fCn~~.I.
CHARLESTON, April 12, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Heavy firing all day. Several guns dismounted in Sumter. Our bat-
teries all safe. Nobody hurt. Four steamers off the bar. The sea pretty
rough.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HDQRS. FIRST REGIMENT SounI CAROLINA VOLS.,
April 12, 186112 noon.
Maj. W. H. C. WHITING,
Acting Adjutant and Insp. Gen., Morris Island, 5. 0.:
MAJOR: It is reported from the lookout on the light house that three
steamers are in sight off the bar. One is supposed by the light-house
keeper to be the Harriet Lane. This one is in sight from the hill at my
camp, and appears different in its build and rig from a merchant steamer.
A heavy gun was fired a short time since at sea, probably from this
steamer.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
MAXCY GREGG,
Colonel First Regiment South Carolina Volunteers.
P. S.The steamer referred to is also reported to have approached
the merchant steamer which was off the bar, and has now gone south.
ward.
APRIL 12, 1861afternoon.
The Pawnee, Harriet Lane (certain), and the Baltic (conjectured,
from my knowledge of her build) are at anchor close at the North Chan-
nel; Illinois (conjectured) at anchor at the main bar. The wind and
sea strong from the southeast; heavy surf. Troops are posted for the
night. As many more as you can send will be welcome. No casualties
-whatever. Troops in good spirits. With your re-enforcemeuts send, if
possible, crackers and dried beef, or other provisions, in. their haver-
sacks. Shells still fire badly, owing to fuses prematurely bursting.
The ships may try to send boats in. Already guns are trained and
ranged for night firing on the landing. It is doubtful if the ships will
-try it. They may. If they run past they will have to go to the city.
~Men fire deliberately.
By order of General Simons:
W. H. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
FORT PALMETTO, STONO INLET, S. C~ April 12, 1861.
Brigadier-General BEAIJREGAIID:
GENERAL: I have the honor to call your attention to the force at this
point. From the accounts received from abroad, large military prepara-
tions seem to have been made against us. A vigorous diversion of their
force may be made at this point, and as your attention is much occupied
by the large preparations in Charleston Harbor, I take the liberty of
bringing our force here to your notice, that you may increase it if
the same is, in your opinion, expedient. We have been occupied all day
strengthening our fortifications by the use of sand bags. With som
Page 307
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCCONFEDERATE 307
laborers here, the main fortifications could be made much stronger
against assault. The work is of such a character that it can only be
done by those who are accustomed to this sort of labor.
I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,
J. J. POPI~, JR,
Captain of Light Artillery, Commander of the Post.
CHARLESTON HOTEL, Charleston, S C., April 12, 1861.
Brigadier General BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Provisional Forces, Charleston, S. C~:
SIR: You were pleased to say, in your letter of yesterday, to Gov-
ernor Pickens, in reference to my tender of services: So soon as a suffi-
cient force shall have been collected on Morris Island or elsewhere to
form two brigades thereat, I shall be most happy to accept his [my] prof
fered ~ There being now on Morris Island the two regiments be-
longing to General Simons brigade, Colonel Greggs regiment of volun-
teers, and Colonel ~ regiment, also the whole or a part of Colonel
ilagoods regimeiit (both of my division), making as large or a larger
number of my division proper than of General Simons command proper,
I submit that the state of things contemplated in your letter has arisen,
and respectfully ask to be assigned immediately to that command.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
M. L. BONHAM,
MiajQr- General Division, South 61arolina Volunteers.
HEADQUARTERS, STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA,
April 12, 1861.
DEAR GENERAL: The display at Light-house Inlet, perhaps, is a
feint, and if so, they intend to re-enforce, as you say, through Bulls
Bay and Sullivans Island Inlet; but I think there is danger at Stono,
and of coming up in the rear of the city by the Long Bridge. The
regiment, stationed at the race-course, is in good position, but they ought
to have pickets out, so as to be in hearing of Stono, so as to report im-
mediately to the colonel of the regiment if any attack is made. If they
come through Sullivans Island Inlet or Creek, then Castle Pinckney
might play her gnns as they turn around to Sumter.
Respectfully,
F. w; PICKENS.
HEADQUARTERS, April 12, 1861.
DEAR GENERAL: Plan of battle just determined on at Greggs
quarters. Whiting, Huger, Gregg, Trapier, and Simons all agree that
we greatly need infantry, to defend the batteries from assault. Four
large steamers are plainly in view, and standing off the bar all day.
Unanimous opinion that a landing will be attempted, and fears that
some of the batteries will be taken, unless supported. Have made the
best distribution of the troops we have, but need every man you can
send. Should you not be here personally to direct l Such is the
general opinion. I send this by order of Simons, who is at Greggs,
and left me here to write, and send without delay.
Very respectfully,
LOUIS T. WIGFALL.
P. S.We have no glass here, and have to rely entirely upon the
eye to examine steamers. Four plainly in sight, and another vessel
out a short distance. Fight exPected to-night
Page 308
308 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
IIDQRS. PROVISIoNAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES,
Charleston, 8. C., April 12, 1861.
Lieutenant-Colonel DR SAUSSURE, Morris Island, S. C.:
SIR: In order to economize our mortar ammunition, I desire that at
or after 19 m. this day you should double the interval between the firing
of the shells; that is, four minutes instead of two during the day, and
twenty minutes instead of ten during the night. The action of your
mortar batteries in that respect will guide the others elsewhere. Be
careful, also, not to fire too fast at your other b~tteries, and to call in
time for additional ammunition when required.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
HDQRS. PROVISIONAL ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES
Charleston, S. C., April 12, 1861.
Maj. W. II. C. WHITING,
Assistant Adjutant- General, & c., Morris Island, S. C.:
MAJOR: Your note is received. Firing, I hope, will soon be better.
To save ammunition of mortars, the time between each shell thrown
should be doubled by day and by nightthat is, four minutes instead
of two for the first, and twenty minutes instead of ten for the last. I
have written to Colonel Dc Saussure to that effect. This change should
take place after 12 m. this day. The batteries elsewhere will follow
those of Cummings Point. Great care should be taken at the other
batteries (gun) not to fire too fast or uselessly, and timely calls for
ammunition should be made. 1 have requested Colonel Wigfall to
lend his assistance to General Simons as a volunteer aid. Be careful
to strengthen the force protecting the batteries on south end of Morris
Island, for if a landing is made it will be done there, probably. How
would it do to send General Bonham to command from about the light-
house down to Light-house Inlet ~? I am trying to dispatch to that
locality as many new arrivals as possible. They will do very well for
those hills.
Yours, truly,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, ~Jommanding.
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War;
~ quarters in Sumter burning. Part of roof snppos& ?d to have
fallen in. Sumter firing at long intervals. Ours regular and effective.
Si~ vessel~ outside in signals with Sumter.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Anderson has hauled down the United States flag on Sumter and run
up white flag. Fort has been burning for several hours from effect o
Page 309
CHAP. 1] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 309
shells. Two explosions have been produced by shells. He has ceased
firing some time, and fire of all the batteries has been continuous till
now3 oclock. Aides have been sent by Beauregard to Sumter.
B. B. RIIETT, JR.
ChARLESTON, S. C., April 13, 18612 p. m.
President JEFF. DAVIS, ]lli6ntgomery, Ala.:
Quarters in Sumter all burned down. White flag up. Have sent a
boat to receive surrender. But half an hour before had sent a boat to
stop our firing and offer assistance.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 13 1861
Gov. F. W. PICKENS, Present:
DEAR GOVERNOR: I have sent Major Jones, Captain Hartstene, and
Colonels Miles and Pryor to Major Anderson to tell him that I offer
him the same terms that I did on the 11th, and that a vessel or steamer
would be sent to him in the morning to take him to the steamer outside,
and that he must be responsible in the mean time for the fort; otherwise,
I would put four companies of artillery in there to-night. I also told
Captain Hartstene to go out to the fleet and tell them that the fort was
now ours, but under the safe-keeping of Major Anderson, and that no
attack could be made upon it by them.
In the morning I will order two of Colonel Ripleys companies and
two of De Saussures to take possession of Fort Sumter.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Fort Sumter has unconditionally surrendered to the Confederate
States, represented by General Beauregard, Colonel Wigfall, his aide,
receiving the surrender. The same terms just offered will be granted.
Engines are about to go down to put out the fire. Fight expected on
Morris Island to-night.
R. B. RHETT, JR.
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Anderson surrenders to the Confederate Government unconditionally,
but I have granted him the same terms as on the 11th instant: All
proper facilities will be afforded for removal of yourself and command,
together with company arms and property and all private property, to
any post in the United States you may elect.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
HEADQUARTERS MORRIS ISLAND, S. C.,
April 13, 18616 p. m.
General BEAUREGARD, Commanding.
GENERAL: Brigadier-General Simons directs me to say that a boat
from the fleet, bearing a white flag, and commanded by a lieutenant o
Page 310
310 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. rcHAP. I.
the U. S. Navy, has just communicated with him. He first inquired if
Major Anderson had surrendered, to which (as informed by Colonel Wig-
fall, aide-de-camp) he was answered Yes; unconditionally. Second,
if he could communicate with Fort Moultrie, to which he was answered
No. (He evidently supposed the commanding general was at Moul-
trie, as he afterwards said.) Third, he asked if he could be permitted
to come in, nnder a flag of truce, and take Major Anderson off. If not,
whether he could come in with a merchantinan a:id do the same. If not,
that whether he could come in with his boats for the purpose. To these
inquiries General Simons replied that transportation could be furnished
for Major Anderson to the fleet, but that the commanding general was
at hand, and could be communicated with at once, with the understand
ing that no hostile demonstration should be made during the night by
the fleet. The lieutenant was informed that you would be furnished
with his questions, and he might return for answers to-morrow morning,
nnder a flag of truce. The lieutenant gave his personal guarantee that
no hostilities would be attempted, and said he would return in the
morning to hear your reply. He informed Major Whiting that their
mission was not hostile, bnt one of peace.
Very respectfully,
W. H. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
CHARLESTON, April 13, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:
We take possession of Fort Sumter to-morrow morning. I allow him
the privilege of saluting his flag. No one killed on our side.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
MONTGOMERY, April 13, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
Accept my congratulations. You have won your spurs. How many
guns can you spare for Pensacola ~
L. P. WALKER.
HDQRS. FIRST BATTALION, THIRTY-THIRD REGIMENT,
SOUTH CAROLINA MILITIA,
April 13, 1861.
General ID. F. JAMISON, Secretary qf War:
SIR: Owing to the absence of Col. Charles Allston, jr., and being
called on by the detachments stationed below this point to complete
the chain of coast guard to the North Carolina line, in view of the emer-
gency of the case (war having actually begun), I have taken upon my-
self to order out one hnndred and forty-six men and twelve commissioned
officers as follows: From Captain IDaggetts company, Waccamaw Light
Artillery, twenty-six men and two officers, stationed as coast guard, from
the redoubt at North Island to Murrays Inlet; distance, twenty-five
miles. From Captain Wards company, Watchesaw Riflemen, twenty
mcii and two officers, stationed at the redoubt at Murray~s Inlet. From
Captain Gillespies company, Carolina Greys, forty men and three offi-
cers, stationed as coast guard, from Murrays Inlet to the redoubt a
Page 311
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 311
Little River, North Carolina line; distance, forty miles. From Captain
Litchflelds company, All Saints Riflemen, thirty men and three officers,
stationed at the redoubt at Little River. I have also, by request, ordered
a detachment of thirty men aiid two officers from Captain Johnsons
company, to take post at the redoubt at the entrance of Santee River,
that post being unoccupied. Have also taken possession of thirty mus-
kets for said detachment from a quantity here in store. Also, a quantity
of army stores.
I have detailed Captain IDaggett as bearer of this report, who will
furnish any farther information you may require as to the defense at
this point.
All of which is respectfully submitted ~~and, hoping it may meet your
approbation, I am, very respectfully, yours,
W. C. WHITE,
Major, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, S. I. AND M. P.,
Fort Moultrie, AS~. 0., April 13, 1861.
Maj. B. R. JONES, Adjutant-General:
MAJOR: I have the honor to report that we have had only two per-
sonal casualties in the force under my conimand, both very slight, and
are privates in Company A (Sullivan and Miller). The effect of the ene-
mys fire upon this fort has been pretty effectually to demolish the
quarters and to injure the hot-shot furnace to a certain extent. The
effects of the Sumter, enfilade, Dahlgr& n, floating, and mortar batteries,
has been to keep the enemy from his barbette guns. The direct fire has
been quite accurate for the distance, several shots having passed through
the arches of the second line of casemates, two or three into his lower
embrasures, and many grazing the crest of his parapet and penetrating
the roof of his quarters. Still, our direct fire is only annoying, and I
have directed it to be economized, to look out and keep the men as fresh
as possible for the channel fight, which, it is to be presumed, is impend-
ing. I note what has been said respecting the hot-shot furnace, and
shall endeavor to attend to it, although it has three shot-holes in it,
which has already rendered one bar inefficient. I have directed Cap-
tain Hamilton, and the floating battery especially; to be economical
with their ammunition, and have to request that the latter be supplied
with one hundred rounds of shell and one hundred cartridges, with ap-
purtenances, by boat this evening from the city. All our P-inch and 8-
inch shells are defective, and Captain Hamilton has filled several with
rice to use them as solid shot. It would be well to have the floating
battery supplied also, if possible, with 42 and 32 pounder ammunition,
as it will be especially eft~ctive in keeping out re-enforcements.
I also have to suggest that Captain Martin be supplied with one hun-
died and fifty shell and ammunition, with authority to practice as much
as he pleases until he gets his shell in. All the mortar practice is wild,
owing to the range and the effect of the wind. As I am sorely pressed
for time, I have respectfully to request that such requisitions as are ap-
proved may be ordered from headquarters.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. S. RIPLEY,
Lieutenant. Colonel Artillery, Oommanding
Page 312
312 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [ChAP. 1.
P. S.One of the rear transoms of Captain ilallonquists mortars, be-
ing made of pine, is split. I shall endeavor to have it repaired. The
merlons stand very well, except the vertical palmetto logs, which collapse
under onr own fire. One 42-pounder shot entered the embrasure, but,
being stuffed with a cotton bale, had no further effect than to take a
splinter off a carriage. The new 8-inch columbiad carriages will not
stand much.
Yery respectfully,
B. S. RIPLEY.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 13, 1861.
Brig. Gen. JAMES SmioNs, Morris Island, 5. C.:
Mv DEAR GENERAL: The accumulation of troops on Morris Island
requires that another general officer should be sent to the southern end
of that island. General Bonham has consented to go there in command,
until we can divide the forces into two brigades, when he will assume
command of the whole as major-general, to act under my orders. Iu
the mean time, should circumstances bring your commands together, he
will necessarily assume the command; otherwise to attend only to his
half (about) of the island, and you to yours, but to mutually assist and
support each other, in case of need, and in the defense of our country
and sacred cause.
Major Whiting will remain acting inspector-general of the whole
island. He will communicate (as well as yourself) all the information in
his possession to General Bonhain. I will endeavor to be with you as
soon as practicable, or whenever required.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAUREGARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
IIDQRS. PROY. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA,
Charleston, S. C., April 13, 1861.
Brig. Gen. R. G. 14. DUNOYANT
Commanding Sullivans Island, S. C.:
GENERAL: Major Anderson will evacuate Fort Sumter to-morrow
morning, when he will be sent to one of the United States vessels out-
side of the harbor. He will be allowed the privilege of saluting his flag
on lowering it.
You will please direct that the ranking officers of Engineers and Ar-
tillery on the island accompany the detachment of one company already
ordered out, as part of a garrison to Fort Sumter, who will make a re-
port of the exact present condition of the fort and of its defenses.
You will also direct Capt. George S. James to hold his company at
Fort Johnson in readiness to move for the same purpose, as soon as
orders to this effect are extended to him.
I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. T. BEAURI~GARD,
Brigadier- General, Commanding
Page 313
313
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE.
IIDQRS. PRoY. ARMY CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERiCA,
Charleston, S. C., April 13, 1861.
General JAMES SIMONS,
Morris Island, S. C.:
GENERAL: Major Anderson will evacuate Fort Sumter to-morrow
morning, when he will be sent to one of the United States vessels out-
side of. the harbor. He will be allowed the privilege of saluting his tlag
on lowering it.
You will please direct that the ranking officers of Engineers and Artil-
lery on the island accompany the detachment of one company, already
ordered out as a part of a garrison to Fort Sumter, who will make a re-
port or the exact present condition of the fort and its defenses.
I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
U. T. BEAUJIEGAIID,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
FORT MOULTRIE, S. 0.,
April 13, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
GENERAL: Fort Sumter has been set on fire, and as it is very impor-
tant (with the vessels outside threatening to enter) to have all exp&
rience, I have determined to remain and avoid or prevent a reenforce-
ment. I do not think that there are more than three vessels off. Col-
onel Ripley and myself will endeavor to prevent an entry here to-night.
1 will, as you said, make myself uselul; more so, probably, than I could
at any other point. I shall go out in a row-boat during the night, with
signals arranged, and reconnoiter the entrance and give timely notice
of any boats approaching. I think the fire-hulk inside of Sumter had
better not be lighted, as it will probably dim our vision.
I have just made out the vessels off. They are the Pawnee, Harriet
Lane, Nashville, Atlantic, ~nd a merchant schooner. They cannot en-
ter in their vessels. With a good lookout (for a lookout stationed here,
and a boat off in the channel, together with their fire-hulks, which are
still floating in a line aronnd Fort Sumter), I think you need have no
fear of an entrance here. They are all here, and in fine spirits. Ripley
is a most valuable officercool, collected, and energetic. He keeps all
in spirits and up to their work. I have all the batteries on this island,
and give the best directions, as I think may be nseful, particularly in
regard to looking out for and firing at boats or shipping. The guns are
all intact, and in fine working order.
Respectfully, H. ~. HARTSTENE.
HEADQUARTERS MORRIS I5LAND, S. C.,
April 13, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston, S. C.:
M~ DEAR GENERAL: We require one thousand or twelve hundred
men to re-enforce this position. Nothing should be left to chance. None
have yet arrived, and this command will be worn out. The troops have
been under arms all night. Six of the hostile ships are in the positions
they occupied at dark last night. The two nearest are the Lane and
the Pawnee. With these vessels so close to ns, I cannot relax my vig
Page 314
314 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
lance without such a force as would render a coup de main impossible.
The men behaved very well and kept well on the alert. I visited the
whole line last night (after midnight) and found everything quiet; but
you are aware that this canuot last over such a long line of defenses,
with an uncertainty as to the point of attack. Opinions differ as to
whether anything got into Sumter last night. There may or may not.
The night was dark, and occasionally stormy, and a heavy sea running.
If anything did, it could not have been very extensive. Perhaps they
desire to lay off, and send in one boat at a time or once a night. This
is the most feasible plan, and that which I most fear. If it is in your
power I beg you to come here for myself personally. I am nearly broken
down for want of rest. The gentlemen you sent are very efficient.
Quartermaster Hatch should send down tents for the general and his staff.
We are without accommodations, and are temporarily in the hospital,
which we may at any time be compelled to leave.
Very truly, yours,
W H. C. WHITING.
[Indorsemeut. I
I hardly think the additional one thousand men could act on that
island, and he ought to order the men to sleep in daylight and enforce it.
F. W. P.
GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPARTMENT,
No. 3. ADJT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE,
Montgomery, Ala., April 13, 1861.
In honor of the occasion, officially announced, that the United States
colors have been hauled down at Fort Sumter and replaced by the white
flag, a salute~ of fifteen guns will be fired in front of the Department this
day at two oclock.
By command of the Secretary of War:
S. COOPER,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
CHARLESTON, April 14, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
I have possession of Sumter. Anderson and garrison on Isabel going
in morning. None killed; two wounded. Quarters in ruins. Interior
of fort damaged. Armament still effective against entrance to channel.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
MORRIS ISLAND, S. C., April 14, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD:
M~ DEAR GENERAL: I beg an immediate answer, by the bearer, to
this. Captain Lee, Corps of Engineers, has preferred to me a claim to
the honor ~f being sent to Sumter this morning. The very f~tithfnl,
skillful, and laborious duties performed here for three months continu-
ously by Captain Lee entitle him to this distinction, if he so considers
it. As the Chief Engineer of the Confederate Army, and charge
Page 315
CHAr. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 315
with the supervision of the works on Morris Island, I have no hesita-
tion in saying that I consider Captain Lee entitled to the credit of the
engineering work done here, with his assistants. To it he has devoted
his time and personal interests. Captain Lee naturally feels aggrieved
at having been snperseded on the eve of action, on the occasion of my
being relieved from engineering dnty (althongh, undoubtedly, that was
dne to the snpposed state of his health). Captain Lee does not desire
to make the report called for in your order, but claims to be seut to
Snmter. I indorse this claim, and most respectfully and earnestly
reqnest that you will return an order sending Captain Lee, for the
present, to Sumter, on duty with the garrison. It is certainly due to
his untiring devotion, he not being absent from his post for three
months, and it is the reward which he has asked for.
W. H. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
P. S.I understand perfectly that you want a specialist. The major
has no feeling about the matter, and will make his report. Please to
grant this.
W. H. C. W.
CHARLESTON, April 14, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Fleet still outside. Can spare no guns yet, but hope to do so soon.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
SOUTH END BATTERY,
Morris Island, S. C., April 15, 1861.
Brigadier-General BEAUREGARD,
Commander-in- Chief, Charleston, S. C.:
GENERAL: These vessels of the enemy, which are causing us some
anxiety, and, at any rate, treating us with great disrespect, I would like
to have the pleasure of (Iriving off from our port; and, if we cannot suc-
ceed in that, at least make them keep at a respectable distance. I
volunteer for the service. If you will allow me to put the rifled can-
non on board the Lady Davis, nuder my command, I can go out, and,
at long range, try the effect of the shot on them. I think in this way
I may be able to annoy, if not drive them offi Should this plan meet
yonr views, I would be glad to try and carry it into execution.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. B. HUGER,
Lient. C. S. Navy, Commandant of Batteries.
MORRIS ISLAND, S. C., April 15, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD,
Commanding Provisional Forces, Charleston, S. C.:
GENERAL: Having posted the troops on the island, with such gen-
eral directions in case of action as I am able to give, I must call your
attention to the danger which they may suffer should the enemy cover
the main line, and keeping out of the close fire of the Dahlgren battery,
string along the beach to shell the troops. I propose to take two of th
Page 316
316 OPERATIONS IN CHARLESTON HARBOR, S. C. [CHAP. I.
mortars from Stevens battery and place them behind Gadbuys during
the night, and one just below the Dahigren. Sturgis will never venture
under vertical fire. The enemy will know nothing of the move. No
epaulement is necessary, nature having provided that. The weak point
of the island is the low flat between Vinegar Hill and Gadbuys, afford-
ing, as it does, no cover to the troops, and a point of attack by which
the enemy might endeavor to separate or cut in two our line. I have
issued the orders for this move, but will hold their execution for yonr
approval. I would like also to have the Dahigren (used by Hamilton
in the late action) immediately, for placing at Light-house Hill (Battery
Huger). These movements should be commenced, if decided upon, at
on~e. We require, also, more artillerymen. The Palmetto Guards
should return to the island to man their mortars. Perhaps some could
be spared from Pleasant and Johnson. I would respectfully indorse
the remounting of a few 24s (now in the city) on Pinckney, and a mor-
tar to be sent there. The channel defenses must be immediately increased
by more columbiads; three from the iron battery, two 42s from the Point,
and five 42s from Sumter (lying on the parade). The three 8-inch co-
lumbiads, half buried, to be used as mortars in Sumter, can be made
available, if quickly done; the 10-inch on a mortar carriage also. The
serviceable battery of Sumter should be put in order and supplied with.
out delay. Had not Major Trapier better attend to these constructions?
The pintles can be placed at once; the carriages have been ordered;
perhaps there are some extra ones at Sumter; the epaulements to be
constructed at leisure. A traverse breastwork, three hnndred yards,
running back from Vinegar Hill, is directed to be constructed. Please
visit this post.
Very truly,
W. H. C. WHITING,
Adjutant and Inspector General.
MONTGOMIERY, April 15, 1861.
General BEAUREGARD, Charleston:
If floating battery worked well I shall order one for Pensacola, so
give me your opinion. If favorable, can Captain Hamilton, under whose
supervision it was constructed, be induced to go to Pensacola for that
purpose?
L. P. WALKER.
CHARLESTON, April 15, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER:
Floating battery worked well for enfilading. Believe it good. Want
Hamilton for a few days. We have a remarkable rifled cannon, 12-pounder,
superior to any other here. Others ought to be ordered.
G. T. BEAUREGARD.
CHARLESTON, S. C., April 15, 1861.
Brig. Gen. G. T. BEAUREGARD, Commanding:
GENERAL: As the floating battery has to be removed from its present
position, and as you are desirous of placing it at Wappoo, for defense
against boats, I would suggest that the armament be changed to 8-inc
Page 317
CHAP. I.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 317
siege howitzers, to throw grape, canister, and spherical-case shot. The
howitzers are at the Citadel, but the carriages will have to be made.
The detachment that fought the battery (a portiou of Company D, of
the artillery battalion) could serve it again, but as the company is well
drilled at the exercise of heavy guns, you will, no doubt, require its
services in the harbor. If authority could be obtained from the honor-
able Secretary of the Confederate States Navy for me to enlist twenty-
five seamen, four of which to be rated petty officers, and Mr. Grimball
and Ingraham could be assigned to me, I could take charge of the bat-
tery and perhaps make her useful.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. III. HAMILTON,
Lieutenant, 0. S. Navy.
GRNERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. PROVISIONAL FORCES,
No. 22. Oharleston, 5. 0., April 15, 1861.
The forces on Morris Island shall constitute one division, to be corn-
manded by Maj. Gen. M. L. Bonham, S. C. V., which division shall be
divided into two brigades, as follows: The first brigade, to be com-
manded by Brig. Gen. James Simons, S. C. M., shall be composed of
Colonels Cunningham and ilagoods regiments, and Lieutenant-Col-
onel De Saussures battalion of artillery and the second brigade, to be
commanded by Brig. Gem P. II. Nelson, S. C. V., shall be composed of
Colonels Greggs and ~ regiments, and the battalion of Colonel
mons regiment on the island; the first brigade to occupy the northern
portion of the island and the second brigade the southern portion.
The general officers will at once assume their commands, and will far-
nish to these headquarters a list of their respective staffs.
By order of Brigadier-General Beauregard:
D. R. JONES,
Assistant Adjutant-General
Page 318
CHAPTER II.
THE SECESSION OF GEORGIA.
January 326, 1861.
SUMMARY OF TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS.
January 3, 1861.Fort Pulaski seized by State troops.
19, 1861.Ordinance of secession adopted.
24, 1861.United States Arsenal at Augusta, Ga., seized by State troops.
26, 1861.Oglethorpe Barracks, Savannah, and Fort Jackson, seized by State
troops.
REPORTS, ETC.
No. 1.Capt. Win. H. C. Whiting, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the seizure of Fort
Pulaski, Ga..
No. 2.Letter of Col. H. K. Craig, Chief of Ordnance U. S. Army, in reference to
transfer of detachment from the Charleston to Augusta Arsenal.
No. 3.Capt. Arnold Elzey, Second U. S. Artillery, of the seizure of Augusta Arsenal.
No. 4.Ordnance Storekeeper John M. Galt, U. S. Army, of the seizure of Augusta
Arsenal.
No. 5.Capt. Win. H. C. Whiting, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the seizure of Ogle-
thorpe Barracks and Fort Jackson.
No. 6.Ordnance Sergeant E. Burt, U. S. Army, of the seizure of Oglethorpe Barracks,
Savannah.
No. 1.
Reports of Capt. W. H. C. Whiting, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the seiz
ure of Port Pulaski, Ga.
SAVANNAH, January 3, 1861.
By direction of Captain Whiting, now on duty at Fort Clinch, I have
to report that State troops left this morning for Fort Pulaski by order
of Governor Brown.
HERMANK HIRSCH, Clerk.
Col. R. E. DE RUSSY, Commanding Corps of iEngineers.
U. S. ENGINEER OFFICE,
Savannah, January 7, 1861.
GENERAL: I have to report that on the 3d instant, beiti g at Fort
Clinch, I received a telegram from my clerk informing me that troops of
the State of Georgia were moving to occupy Fort Pulaski, by order of
the governor. I replied by telegraph, directing Mr. Hirsch to inform
31
Page 319
ChAP. TI.] REPORTS, ETC. 319
the commandant of Engineers of the fact. 1 took the first opportunity
to reach Savannah on the 6th, and arrived last night. This morning I
proceeded to Fort Pulaski, which I found occupied by Georgia troops,
commanded by Colonel Lawton. I was received with great civility,
and informed by him that he held possession of all the Government
property for the present, by order of the governor of the State, and in-
tended to preserve it from loss or damage. He requested a return of
the public property, both Ordnance and Engineer, which I have given
as existiug January 1. Those returns for the fourth quarter, 1860, will
be forwarded with my quarterly papers, signed as usual up to the com-
mencement of the present quarter. I can sign no more, however, for I
cannot be responsible for property of the charge of which I have been
forcibly deprived. I have directed Ordnance Sergeant Walker to re-
port at Oglethorpe Barracks until further orders. The fort keeper I
have discharged.
On Saturday, 3d instant, the regular mail-boat from Fernandina to
this place, by which I intended to travel, was taken off the line by the
governor of Florida and ordered, as I was iuformed, to Saint Augustine,
with a force to seize the ordnance mounted in the water battery of Fort
Marion for the purpose of arming Fort Clinch.
It is, perhaps, unnecessary for me to say to the Department that in
the present condition of Fort Clinch the idea of arming it either for
offense or defense is simply absurd. My presence, however, is neces-
sary there, for I know that I have sufficient influence in the community
to prevent anything like spoliation or plunder of the public property by
lawless individuals. I shall, therefore, return there on Wednesday, the
9th instant. Previous to leaving that post, I received assurances from
the principal citizens to the effect that they would promptly put down
anything like an attempt on the part of unauthorized mob~ to take a
dimes worth of the large amount of valuable material and property at
the fort. They manifest a desire that the work shall continue without
molestation, and this I believe to be the desire also of the members
of the State Convention. I have a force of sixty men at work pushing
the masonry as rapidly as possible. On the authority of Department
letter of 9th ultimo, I have continued the work with the funds in my
hands. The payments for December, which will be immediately made,
will exhaust all funds in my hands belonging to Fort Clinch, and per-
haps exceed a little. I have, as will be seen by the monthly statement,
enough of other funds to continue for the present; but unless a portion
at least of my last estimates is sent to me, I shall be compelled to close
my operations. I respectfully request instructions. It is necessary to
inform you that the telegraph is in the hands of the State authorities,
and iio message of a military or political character is allowed to be sent
or delivered except by permission of the governor. The telegram of Mr.
Hirsch to Colonel De Hussy was refused until countersigued by Gov-
ernor Brown.
As to the Savannah IRiver improvement, no interference with the prop-
erty belonging to the appropriation has been attempted, nor is any at
present anticipated. I have, however, directed the discharge of all em-
ploy6s except a watchman. Fort Jackson remains as heretofore.
The mail between Charleston and Fernandina having been discon-
tinued, I request that communications be addressed to me via Savannah.
Very respectfully,
WM. II. C. WHITING,
Captain of Engineer8.
General J. G. TOTTEN, Chief Engineer, Washington
Page 320
320 THE SECESSION OF GEORGIA. rOHAP. II.
No. 2.
Letter from Cot. H. K. Craig, Chief of Ordnance U. S. Army, in reference
to transfer of detachment from the Charleston to Augusta Arsenal.
ORDNANCE OFFICE,
Washington D. C., January 19, 1861.
SIR: The inclosed letter from Captain Elzey to the Adjutant-General
of the Army is submitted for the perusal of the Lieutenant-General com-
manding, and for such action as he may deem proper in the case, with
the remarks that the captain had no means of knowing whether the
Colonel of Ordnance had or had not consulted higher authority on the
matter, even if such consultation, under the peculiar circumstances of
the case, had been requisite.
The Ordnance detachment had been ejected from the Charleston Arse-
nal by the treasonable violence of the State authorities, and it became
absolutely necessary to shelter it elsewhere: The Augusta Arsenal, Ga.,
under the control of this Department, where ample quarters are prepared
for its enlisted men, is the nearest acceptable military post to which the
detachment could be sent. The order to that effect was given after a
full consideration of its propriety, and it is believed that if Captain
Elzey had taken the pains to offer such explanations as his information
warranted, the excitement alluded to by him need not have occurred,
or might have been readily abated.
With much respect,
II. K. CRAIG,
Colonel of Ordnance.
Lient. Col. L. THOMAS,
Assistant Adjutant- General, Headquarters.
[Inclosure.]
AUGUSTA ARSENAL, GA., January 11, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to foward a field return of a detachment of
Ordnance which arrived at this post last night from Charleston, S. C.,
under command of Military Storekeeper llumphreys. He reported here
by telegraphic order from Colonel Craig. This movement on the part of
Colonel Craig I believe to be wholly unauthorized by the War Depart-
ment. It was injudicious and impolitic, added much to the excitement ill
Augusta, and was very nigh producing serious difficulties in this quarter,
the people believing it to be a re-enforcement to my command. I had no
previous knowledge of it whatever.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ARNOLD ELZEY,
Col. ~. COOPER, C~aptain, Second Artillery, Commanding Post.
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
No. 3.
Reports of t2apt. Arnold Blzey, Second U. & Artillery, of the seizure
of Augusta Arsenal.*
HEADQUARTERS AUGUSTA, GA., ARSENAL,
Ja.nuary 23, 1861i oclock p. m.
SIR: I am just officially informed by the governor of Georgia, now in
Augusta, supported by a superior military force, that Georgia having
See also inclosure to No. 2, p. 320
Page 321
CHAP. ml REPORTS, ETC. 321
resumed exclusive sovereignty over her soil, it has become his duty to
require me to withdraw. the troops under my command at the earliest
practicable moment from the limits of the State. He declares his in-
tention to take possession of the arsenal, and proposes to receipt for the
public property and account for the same on adjustment between the
State of Georgia and the United States of America. He further declares
that the retention of the troops upon the soil of Georgia after remon-
strance is, under the laws of nations, an act of hostilify, claiming that
the State now is not only at peace but anxious to cultivate the most
amicable relations with the United States Government, and that an
answer from me to his demand is required at 9 oclock a. m. to-morrow.
An immediate answer to this communication is~respectfully requested.~
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ARNOLD ELZEY,
Captain, Second Artillery, Commanding.
Col. S. COOPER, A djutant- General U. S. Army.
AUGUSTA ARSENAL, GA., January 24, 1861.
Sin: I have the honur to report that the arsenal was surrendered this
morning to the governor of Georgia upon honorable terms, herewith in-
closed.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ARNOLD ELZEY
Captain, Second ~Artillery.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
[linclosure.]
AUGUSTA ARSENAL, GA., January 24, 1861.
His excellency the governor of Georgia having demanded the United
States Arsenal at Augusta, commanded-by Capt. Arnold Elzey, Second
Artillery, U. S. Army, the following terms are agreed upon, to wit.:
1st. The flag to le saluted and lowered by the United States troops.
2d. The company to be marched out with military honors and to re-
tain its arms and company property.
3d. The officers and soldiers to occupy quarters until removed beyond
the limits of the State, and to have the use of the post transportation to
and from the city and in the neighborhood, and the privilege of obtain-
ing supplies from the city.
4th. The public property to be receipted for hy the State authorities
and accounted for upon adjustment between the State of Georgia and
the United States of America.
5th. The troops to have unobstructed passage through and out of the
State, by water, to New York, via Savannah.
JOSEPH E. BROWN,
Governor and 6~ommander.in-Cidef of the Army of the State of Georgia.
ARNOLD ELZEY,
Captain, Second Art~llery, Commanding Augusta Arsenal.
21 u B
*Tlie answer is qm~te1 in Rizeys report of February 15, 1861, p. 322
Page 322
322 THE SECESSION OF GEORGIA. (CHAP. It
WASHINGTON, P. C~, February 15, 1861.
Siu: In compliance with your letter of this date, I have the honor to
submit the following complete report of the surrender of the United
States Arsenal at Augusta, Ga.:
On the morning of the 23d of January, ultimo, I received from the
governor of Georgia, then in Augusta, backed by a superior force of State
troops, numbering some six or seven hundred, a verbal demand of the
arsenal, which I refused. Shortly after came throngh his aidede-camp
a written demand in the following terms, the substance of which wa~
telegraphed by me to the War Department, to wit:
AUGUSTA, January 23, 1861.
Sin: I am instructed by his excellency Governor Brown to say to you that, Georgia
having seceded from the United States of America and resumed exclusive sovereignty
over her soil, it has become his duty to require you to withdraw the troops under your
command, at the earliest practicable moment, from the limits of the State.
He proposes to take possession of tbe arsenal, and to receiVt for all public property
under your chmrge, which will be accounted for on adjustment between the State of
Georgia and the United States of America.
He begs to refer you to the fact that the retention of your troops upon the soil of
Georgia after remonstrance is, under the laws of nations, an act of hostility, and he
claim that the State is not only at peace bat anxious to cultivate the most amicable
relations with the United States Government.
I am further instructed to say that an answer will be expected by to-morrow morn-
ing at 9 oclock.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY R. JACKSON,
Aide-de-Camp, ~5c.
About 1 oclock on the night of the 23d of January, ultimo, I received
from the War Department the following reply to my telegram, to wit:
Capt. ARNOLD ELZEY, WASIIINGTON, January [23, 1861.]
Second Artillery, Commanding Augusta Arsenal, Ga.:
The governor of Georgia has assumed against your post and the United States an
attitude of war. His summons is harsh and peremptory. It is not expected that your
defense shall be desperate. If forced to surrender by violence or starvation, you will
stipulate for honorable terms and a free passage by water with your company to New
York.
J. HOLT,
Secretary of War.
To have resisted such a force, then ready to attack me, with my
knowledge of large re-enforcements at Savannah and Atlanta, ready to
come up by rail at a mo~~fl~~5 warning, would have been desperation in
my weak position. I therefore directed my adjutant to address and
convey the following note in reply to the governors demand:
HEADQUARTERS AUGUSTA ARSENAL, GA.,
January 24, 1861.
Col. H. R. JACKSON, A. D. C.:
SIR: I have the honor to inform you that I am dirncted by Captain Elzey, com-
manding this post, to say, in reply to the demands of the governor of Georgia, made
through you yesterday, requiring him to withdraw his command beyond the limits of
the State, he begs to request an interview with his excellency the governor for the
purpose of negotiating honorable terms of surrender at as early an hour this morning
as practicable.
I havi~ the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant.
J. P. JONES,
Lieutenant, Second Artillery, Post Adjutant.
About 10 oclock of the same morning (24th) the governor, accom-
panied by his staff and Brigadier General Harris, commanding th
Page 323
CHAP. ILI REPORTS, ETC. 323
troops, rode up to my quarters and were received by me, when the fob
lowing honorable terms were agreed npon and executed, to wit:*
* * * * * * *
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ARNOLD ELZEY,
Captain, Second Artillery.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army.
No. 4.
Report of Ordnance Storekeeper John M. Gait, U. S. Army, of the seizure
of Augusta Arsenal.
AUGUSTA ARSENAL, GA., January 25, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report that this post was surrendered to the
authorities of the State of Georgia on a demand made by the governor
in person, backed by a very superior force of the military of the State.
The company of Second U. S. Artillery stationed here is under orders
for New York, and as we are required to evacuate the post as soon as
practicable, I would respectfully recommend the immediate discharge of
the detachment of Ordnance, and would request that four or six months
leave of absence be granted to me. It may be well in making the
application for leave of absence to say that I have had none for four-
teen years, with one exception, which I did avail myself of. Full and
complete receipts will be taken for all the public property in my charge.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN M. GALT,
Military Storekeeper of Ordnance.
CoL H. K. CRAIG, Ordnance Office, Washington, D. C.
No. 5.
Report of Capt. Win. H. C. Whiting, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the seiz
ure of Oglethorpe Barracks and Fort Jackson.
U. S. ENGINEER OFFICE,
Savannah, January 28, 1861.
GENERAL: I arrived here this evening from Fort Clinch. I left that
post in charge of Mr. James A. Walker as fort keeper. A copy of my
instructions to him is forwarded herewith.
Previous to leaving Fernandina I received verbal assurance from a
member of the governors council that the property at Fort Clinch would
not be disturbed by the State, and that the work would be allowed to
remain in the charge of the United States fort-keepers in statu quo. On
my arrival here I found that the authorities of the State of Georgia had
taken possession of all the works under my charge in the State, and had
formally assumed the control of Oglethorpe Barracks. I forward here-
with a copy of a letter addressed to me by Colonel A. R. Lawton, of the
Georgia troops. Ordnance Sergeant Burt having refused to surrender,
his storeroom was taken possession of, and on his reporting to me I
gave him orders to make no further resistance. Both Ordnance Sergeant
* See inclosure to report of January 24, 1861, p. 321
Page 324
324 THE SECESSION OF GEORGIA. [CHAP. II
Walker, late at Fort Pulaski, and Ordnance Sergeant Bnrt are now at
the barracks~ where they are permitted to remain. My command hav-
ing been forcibly interrupted, I can give them no fnrther orders, and
must leave the disposition of them to headquarters.
Very respectfully, ~ H. ~. WHITING,
Caytain of Engineers.
General J. G. TOTTEN, Chief of Engineers.
(Inclosure.]
SAVANNAH, January 28, 1861.
Captain WHITING, iT. S. Engineers:
SIR: I am instructed by the governor and commander-in-chief of the
State of Georgia to take possession of Oglethorpe Barracks, in the
name of the State of Georgia, and in your absence from this city po~ses-
sion has been taken. The occupants will not be disturbed at present,
and you will please consider yourself at liberty to occupy, with your
employ6s, such apartments as are necessary for your convenience while
you are closing up your business here. The steamer Ida and appur-
tenances have also been taken possession of under the same authority.
This, I believe, includes all the property held by you in the State of
Georgia, as military engineer of the United States, but does not include
any light-house property.
You have been already notified, informally, that Forts Pulaski and
Jackson had been occupied by the troops of the State of Georgia under
my command.
Very respectfully, A. R. LA.WTOX,
Liolonel, Commanding.
No. 6.
Report of Ordnance Sergeant B. Burt, U. S. Army, of the seizure of Ogle-
thorpe Barracks, Savannah.
SAVANNAH, GA., January 27, 1861.
Sn~: I transmit herewith a copy of an order which was handed to me
yesterday.
I refused to recognize Colonel Lawtons authority, or to allow Lieu-
tenant Bassinger to interfere with the barracks or public property.
Lieutenant Bassinger, on my refusal to agree to comply with the order
which he gave me, called on and obtained assistance from the city police
and fastened up my public storeroom. The barracks are now under the
charge of the police.
I. do not think the State authorities design taking the stores from here
at present, or that they will molest me so long as I allow them to keep
my storeroom fastened.
Lieutenant Bassinger, an officer of the State, offered to give me any
writing I might desire in relation [to] the post and stores, but I refused
to take any, or to give him any information. Please inform me if I am
to act different from what I have.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. BURT,
Ordnance Sergeant, U. S. Army.
Vol. 5. COoPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C
Page 325
REPORTS, ETC.
(1uc1o8ure.1
SAYAxNAII, January 26, 1861.
Lieut. W. S. BASSINGER:
SIR: You will immediately take possession of Oglethorpe Barracks,
in this city, in the name of the State of Georgia, and under orders of
the commander-in-chief.
The present occupants are not to be disturbed, provided they agree to
remain subject to my orders, or to any proper authority of this State.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. R. LAWTON,
CoiQuet, Commanding.
Cnir. U.]
32
Page 326
CHAPTER III.
THE SECESSION OF ALABAMA AND MISSISSIPPI.
January 420, 1861.
SUMMARY OF TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS.
January 4, 1861.United States Arsenal at Mount Vernon seized by State troops.
5, 1861.Forts Morgan and Gaines seized by State troops.
9, 1861.Ordinance of secession adopted in Mississippi.
11, 1861.Ordinance of secession adopted in Alabama.
20, 1861.Fort on Ship Island, Miss., seized by State troops.
REPORTS, ETC.
No. 1.Letter from Secretary of War to Hon. ID. Clopton, declining to furnish plans of
Mount Vernon ArsenaL
No. 2.Capt. Jesse L. Reno, U. S. Ordnance Department, of the seizure of Mount
Vernon Arsenal.
No. 3.Ordnance Sergeant S. Patterson, U. S. Army, of the seizure of Fort Morgan.
No. 4.Letter from the Governor of Alabama to the President of the United States.
No. 5.Lient. F. E. Prime, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the seizure of fort on Ship
Island, Miss.
No. 6.Lient. C. B. Reese, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the formal occup~ition of Fort
Gaines by the State troops.
No~ 1.
Letter from the Secretary of War to Hon. D. Clopton.
WAR DEPARTMENT
Washington, January 3, 1861.
lion. DAVID CLOPTON, House of Representatives:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 25th ultimo, asking for the plat and plan of the magazines at Mount
Vernon Arsenal, Alabama. In reply, I have to say that I would cheer-
fully comply with your request did not the interests of the service in the
present condition of affairs forbid the pabliQation of information of that
description.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. HOLT,
Secretary of War ad interim.
32
Page 327
Vu& r. 111.] REPORTS, ETC. 327
No. 2.
Report of Capt. Jesse L. Reno, U. S. Ordnance Department, of the seizure
of Mount Vernon Arsenal.
MOUNT VERNON ARSENAL, January 4, 1861.
Siu: I have the honor to inform you that this arsenal was taken pos-
session of by four companies of volunteers from Mobile at daylight this
morning. I did not make, nor could I have made, any resistance, as
they had scaled the walls and taken possession before I knew anything
about the movement.
The governor has demanded all the public property, and his men now
have entire possession of the arsenal.
I telegraphed to you to-day for orders as to what disposition is to be
made of the enlisted men and of myself If, unfortunately, my telegram
should not be answered, I will wait here a few days in hopes of hearing
from you; but in the event the mails should be stopped, I will discharge
all those that desire it, and bring the others with me to Washington.
The men have not been paid, and I fear that now there is no prospect
of it at present.
I shall probably leave here by the 11th instant, nnlessl should receive
other orders. As it was impossible for me to hold this place with my
8eventeeu men, I trust that the Department will not hold me responsible
for this unexpected catastrophe.
Very respectfully., your obedient servant,
J. L. REXO,
Captain, Ordnance.
Capt. WM. MAYNADIER, Ordnance Office.
No. 3.
Report of Ordnance Sergeant S. Patterson, U. S. Army, of the seizure of
Fort Morgan.
MomLE, January 5, 1861.
DEAR SIR: I have been superseded by Colonel Todd, of the Militia
of Alabama, and he took and receipted for all the property belonging to
the Ordnance Department and fort.
I wait for orders from the Adjutant.General.
I am, very respectfully, ~. PATTERSON,
Ordnance Sergeant, U. S. Army.
The ADJUTANT-GENERAL.
No.4.
Letter from the Governor of Alabama to the President of the United States.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Montgomery, Ala., January 4 [?], 1861.
To his Excellency JAmvrus BUCHANAN, President of the United States:
SIR: In a spirit of frankness I hasten to inform you by letter that by
my order Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines, and the United States Arsena
Page 328
328 THE SECESSION OF ALABAMA AND MISSISSIPPI. [CHAP. IlL
at Mount Vernon were on yesterday * peacefully occupied, and are now
held by the troops of the State of Alabama. That this act on my part
may not be misunderstood by the (}overnment of the United States, I
proceed to state the motives whicli have induced it, and the reasons
which justify it, and also the course of conduct with which I design b
follow that act.
A convention of the people of this State will, in pursuance of a previ-
ously-enacted law, assemble on the 7th instant. I was fully convinced
by the evidences which I had that that convention would at an early
day, in the exercise of an authority which in my judgment of right be-
longs to it, withdraw the State of Alabama from the Government of the
United States and place it in the attitude of a separate and independent
power. Being thus convinced I deemed it my duty to take every pre-
cautionary step to make the secession of the State peaceful, and prevent
detriment to her people.
While entertaining such a conviction as to my duty, I received such
information as left but little, if any, room to doubt that the Governmei~t
of the United States, anticipating the secession of Alabama, and pre-
paring to maintain its authority withiii this State by force, even to the
shedding of the blood and the sacrifice of the lives of the people, was
about to re-enforce tho~e forts and put a guard over the arsenal. Hav-
ing that information, it was but an act of self-defense, and the plainest
dictate of prudence, to anticipate and guard against the contemplated
movement of the authorities of the General Government. Appreciating,
as I am sure you do, the courage and spirit of our people, you must be
sensible that no attempt at the coercion of the State, or at the enforce-
ment by military power of the authority of the United States within its
jurisdictiou in contravention of the ordinance of secession can be effect-
ual, unless our utmost capacity for resistance can be exhausted. it
would have been an unwise policy, suicidal in its character, to have per-
mitted the Government of the United States to have made undisturbed
preparations within this State to enforce by war and bloodshed an
authority which it is the fixed purpose of the people of the State to
resist to the uttermost of their power. A policy so manifestly unwise
would probably have ~been overruled by an excited and discontented
people, and popular violence might have accomplished that which has
been done by the State. ~much more appropriately and much more con-
sistently with the prospect of peace and the interests of the parties con-
cerned.
The purpose with which my order was given and has been executed
was to avoid and not to provoke hostilities between the State and Fed-
eral Govcaument. ~There is 110 object, save the honor and independence
of my State, Which is by me so ardently desired as the preservation of
amicable relations between this State and the Government of the United
States. That the secession of the State, made necessary by the conduct
of others, may be peaceful is my prayer as well as the prayer of every
patriotic man in the State. -
An inventory of the property in the forts and arsenal has been ordered,
and the strictest care will be taken to prevent the injury or destruction
of it while peaceable relations continue to subsist, as I trust they wilL
The forts and arsenal will be held by my order only for the precaution-
ary purpose for which they were taken, and subject to the control oK
~~he convention of the people to assemble on the 7th instant.
With distinguished consideration, I am your obedient servant,
A. B. MOORE.
4 * But see dates in Summary of Events, p 326
Page 329
CsAP. IIII REPORTS, ETC. 329
No. 5.
B#~port of Jijeut. Frederick B. Prime, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the seiz
ure of fort on Ship Island, ]lJiiss.
BirLoxi, Miss., January 30, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report that the works at Ship Island were
visited by an armed body of men on the forenoon of the 13th instant.
They stated to the overseer that their object was to take possession of the
works, and, a~o, that they were acting on their own responsibility. After
a short stay on the island, they left without interfering in any way with
the work. On the afternoon of the same day another party, also armed,
landed at Ship Island; their statement to the overseer was the same as
that made by the first party. A flag was hoisted previous to their de-
parture that evening. Ten men were left on the island, who occupied a
vacant engineer building. As no interference was attempted on their
part, operations were continued, so as to close the works as rapidly as
pos~ible. On the morning of the 20th instant, a third armed body of men
took forcible possession of the works and engineer property at Ship
Island. From that moment I considered myself relieved from all connec-
tion with those works. The forcible seizure on the 18th instant of the
works and engineer property on east end of Dauphin Island (reported to
the Department by Lieutenant Reese) has, in like manner, relieved me
from all responsibility respecting Fort Gaines. The forcible occupation
ofFortMorganandmyarrestatPensacolahave,Iconsider,relievedme
from all connection with my other works, unless it be Fort Pickens, now
garrisoned by the line of the Army. My duties are thus restricted to
the settlement of outstanding liabilities against the works formerly in my
charge. Should the Department, however, consider that I have, or may
have hereafter, other duties to discharge with respect to these works,
I would respectfully request that I be furnished with instructions to
that effect.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FREDERICK E. PRIME,
First Lieutenant, Engineers.
Bvt. Brig. Gen. J. G. TOTTEN, Chief of Engineers.
Capt. II. G. WRIGHT:
DEAR CAPTAIN: Dame Rumor says all th~ expeditions to capture Ship
Island have been made without any authority from the governor, and
have not as yet received his sanction.
F.E.P.
No. 6.
Report of Lieut. C. B. Reese, U. S. Corps of Engineers, of the formal occu
pation of Fort Gaines by State troops.
MOBILE, ALA., January 19, 1861.
SIR: I have to state that Fort Gaines was formally taken possession
of in name of the State of Alabama yesterday. I was about to send all
the hands off on a steamer chartered for the pnrpose; some provisions,
& c., were also to [be] taken to Mobile and sold. Colonel Todd, of the State
militia, arrived there in a small boat with four or five officers, at abou
Page 330
330 THE SECESSION OF ALABAMA AND MISSISSIPPI. [CnAP. in.
the same time that the steamer came to take the hands, provisions, & c.,
and prevented the shipment of anything but personal property, and de-
manded the surrender of fort and all property pertaining thereto. I
gave the sub-overseer directions to turn over keys, & c. Colonel Todd
informed me that about 30 men would be left there that day. Fort Mor-
gan has now, I think, at least 400 and perhaps 500 men.
Respectfully, your obedient servant, B. REESE,
Lieutenant of .Engineer8.
General J. G. TOTTEN, Chief of Engineer8.
Page 331
CHAPTER IV.
OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA.
January 6August 31, 1861.
SUIMEARY 0B TI{IEI PRINCIPA.L EVENTS.
January 6, 1861.United States Arsenal at Apalachicola seized by State troops.
7, 1861.Fort Marion, Saint Augustine, seized by State troops.
10, 1861.Ordinance of secession adopted.
U. S. troops transferred from Barrancas Barracks to Fort Pickens,
Pensacola Harbor.
12, 1861.Barrancas Barracks, Forts Barrancas and McRee, and the navy-
yard, Pensacola, seized by State troops.
Surrender of Fort Pickens demanded.
14, 1861.Fort Taylor, Key West, garrisoned by United States troops.
15, 1861.Second demand for surrender of Fort Pickens.
18, 1861.Fort Jefferson, Tortugas, garrisoned by United States troops.
Third demand for surrender of Fort Pickens.
24, 1861.Be-enforcements for Fort Pickens sail from Fort Monroe, Va.
February 6, 1861.U. S. steamer Brooklyn arrives off Pensacola with re-enforcements
for Fort Pickens.
March 11, 1861.Brig. Gen. Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army, assumes command of Con-
federate forces.
21, 1861.Seizure of the sloop Isabella.
April 7, 1861.Re-enforcements for Fort Pickens sail from New York.
12, 1861.Re-enforcements from Fort Monroe, and detachment of marines,
landed at Fort Pickens.
13, 1861.Bvt. Col. Harvey Brown, Second U. S. Artillery, assumes command
of the Department of Florida.
17, 1861.Re-enforcements from New York arrive at Fort Pickens.
August 5, 1861.The Alvarado burned off Fernandina, by the U. S. steamer Yin-
cennes.
REPORTS.
Na. 1.Ordnance Sergeant B. Powell, U. S. Army, of the seizure of U. S. Arsenal
at Apalachicola.
Na. 2.Ordnance Sergeant Henry Douglas, U. S. Army, of the seizure of Fort Marion,
Saint Augustine.
No. 3.ILient. 4 J. Slemmer, First U. S. Artillery, of the transfer of his command
from Barrancas Barracks to Fort Pickens, and subsequent events (to Febru-
ary 5, 1861) in Pensacola Harbor.
33
Page 332
332 OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA. [Ciw.. IV.
No. 4.Capt. John M. Brannan, First U. S. Artillery, in reference to occupation of
Fort Taylor, Key West.
No. 5.Bvt. Maj. L. G. Arnold, Second U. S. Artillery, of occupation of Fort Jeffer-
son, Tortuga3.
No. 6.Capt. E. Yuell, assistant commissary subsistence, C. S. Army, of the destruc-
tion of the Alvarado by the U. S. steamer Vincennes.
No. 1.
Reports of Ordnance Sergeant B. Powell, U. S. Army, of the seizure of
U. S. Arsenal at Apalachicola.
CHATTAHOOCHEE, January 6 ,1861.
The arsenal has been taken possession of by the State this morning,
7 oclock. My forces too weak to defend it. I have refused keys
of magazine and armory. Answer, with instructions.
E. POWELL, U. S. Arsenal.
Captain MAYNAIuER, Chief Ordnance Department.
U. S. ARSENAL, CHATTAHOOCHEE, FL A.,
January 6, 1861.
Sin: I have the honor herewith to inclose a copy of the order given
to Colonel Dunn, the commander of the troops which took possession
of this arsenal. I telegraphed this morning to you.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. POWELL,
Urdnance Sergeant, U. S. Army.
Capt. W. MAYNADIER, Chief of Ordnance, Washington, D. C.
[Inclosure.]
STATE OF FLORIDA, EXECUTIVE CHMrBER,
Tallahassee, January 5, 1861.
Sin: Reposing special confidence in your patriotism, discretion, and
integrity, I hereby authorize and empower you to raise a company of
picked men and proceed to the Apalachicola River and seize and pos.
sess the arsenal, arms, ammunition, stores, buildings, and other prop-
erty now in the possession of the General Government, and retain the
same subject to my orders. You are requested to act with secrecy and
discretion. You are further authorized to call out the Seventh Regi-
ment Florida Militia for all aid in its power to render that you may
deem necessary to retain occupation of said arsenaL
N. S. PERRY.
By the governor State Florida:
T. S. VILLEPIGUE, Secretary of State.
QUINCY, FLA., January 6, 1861.
SIR: I beg leave to state that I telegraphed this mori~*ng from Chat.
tahoochee, and finding that I could get no answer, I came to this place
and thought probably I might get an answer from you by writing from
here. I informed you that the Florida troops had taken possession of
the arsenal, and my force being so weak I was unable to offer any resist
Page 333
333
CHAP. Ivj REPORTS.
ance. I mailed a copy of the governors order, & c., this morning at;
Chattahoochee, but finding that it would not be forwarded on account
of the excitementthey have taken all the public property in spite of
all I could doI refused giving up the keys, but the governor tele-
graphed to the commanding officer to insist on the delivery of the same,
and I was compelled to give them up. I would be pleased to receive
advice as to what disposition I shall make of myself and men.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant
E. P6WELL,
Ordnance Sergeant, U. S. Army.
Capt. W. MAYNADIER, Washington, D. 0.
No. 2.
Report of Ordnance Sergeant Henry Douglas, U. S. Army, of the seizure
of Fort Marion, Saint Augustine.
SAINT AUGUSTINE, EAST FLORIDA,
January 7, 1861.
SIR: I am obliged to perform what is to me a painful duty, viz, to
report to the Chief of Ordnance that all the military stores at this place
were seized this morning by the order of the governor of the State of
Florida. A company of volunteer soldiers marched to the barracks
and took possession of me, and demanded peaceable possession of the
keys of the fort and magazine. I demanded them to show me their
authority. An aide-de-camp of the governor showed me his letter of
instructions authorizing him to seize the property, and directing him to
use what force might be necessary.
Upon reflection I decided that the only alternative for me was to
deliver the keys, under protest, and demand a receipt for the property.
One thing certain, with the exception of the guns composing the arma-
ment of the water battery, the property seized is of no great value. The
gentleman acting under the governors instructions has promised to re-
ceipt to me for the stores.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY DOUGLAS,
Ordnance Sergeant, U. S. Army.
Col. II. K. CRAIG,
Chief of Ordnance Department, U. S. Army.
No. 3.
Reports of Lieut. Adam J. Slemmer, First U. S. Artillery, of the transfer
of his command from Barrancas Barracks to Fort Pickens, and subse-
~juent events (to February 5, 1861) in Pensacola Harbor.
BARRANCAS BARRACKS, FLA.,
January 8, 1861.
SIR: There are rumors that the citizens of Florida and Alabama
intend taking possession of the fortifications in this harbor. They have
already taken those at Mobile and Savannah. I am stationed with one
company (G, First Artillery) at Barrancas Barracks, having also For
Page 334
334 OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA. [CHAP. IV.
Barrancas in charge. There are no accommodations for troops in the fort.
Fort Pickens (unoccupied) commands the harbor, and should that work
be taken possession of our position would be useless as far as any protec-
tion to the harbor goes. Please furnish me with orders for my direction
in the case before me. I have already telegraphed to the same effect.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
A. J. SLEMMEB,
First Lieutenant, First Artillery, Commanding.
CoL S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army.
FORT PICKE~S, FLA., January 10, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report that on this date, I removed my
command from Barrancas Barracks, Fla., to Fort Pickens, under special
instructions received the previous day from the General-in-Chief.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
A. J. SLEMMEB,
First Lieutenant, First Artillery, Commanding Post.
CoL S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army.
FORT PIOXENS, FLA., February 5, 1861.
SIR: Having heard rumors that the forts and other public property in
Pensacola Harbor were to be seized by troops under the orders of the
governor of Florida, and having been advised of the seizure of the
forts in Mobile Bay, I deemed it proper, having received no instructions
from Washington, to endeavor to prevent, by all the means in my power,
a like seizure here.
On the morning of the 7th ultimo, accompanied by Lieutenant Gil-
man, I called upou the commander of the navy-yard, Commodore Arm-
strong, to consult with him in reference to some plan to be adopted to
insure the safety of the public property. We had a similar consultation
on the evening of the same day and on the morning of the 8th. The
commodore, in the absence of any orders, deemed it inexpedient to co-
operate with us.
On the morning of the 8th 1 removed all the powder from the magazine
in the Spanish battery of Fort Barrancas to the inner magazines, because,
from its exposed position, it was liable to seizure at any moment. I also
caused all the batteries to be put in working order, and at night placed
a sergeants guard in the fort with the drawbridge raised. That night
a body of men (about twenty in number) came to the fort with the evi-
dent intention of ta1~ing possession. The corporal of the guard caused
the alarm to be given, upon which the assailants retreated precipitately.
The guard was immediately strengthened by half the company, but
nothing further occurred that night.
On the morning of the 9th I received through the mail a letter, of
which the following is a copy:
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY
First Lieut. A. J. SLEMMER Washington, January 3, 1861.
SIR :Ilrst Artillery, or Commznding Officer Barrancan Barracks, lila.:
The General-in-Chief directs that you take measures to do the utmost in your
power to prevent the seizure of either of the forts in Pensacola Harbor by surprise or
assault, consulting first with the commander of the navy-yard, who will probably have
received instructions to co-operate with you.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. W. LAY,
Lieutenant-Colonel, A. D. C
Page 335
Cnir. lY.] REPORTS. 335
Immediately on its reception, accompanied by Lieutenant Gilman, I
called on Conimodore Armstrong to consult with him. He had received
orders to co-operate with me. We decided that with our limited means
of defense we could hold but one fort, and that should be Fort Pickens,
as it commanded completely the harbor and the forts an dalsothe
navy-yard, and, in case of necessity, could be more readily re-enforced
than either of the others, and presented the best means of defense. In
order to act on this decision, the commodore promised to send the U. S.
steamer Wyandotte at 1 oclock p. in. to take us over, to give us all
the men he could possibly spare, and to allow the steamer Wyandotte
and the storeship Supply to anchor under the guns of the fort, in order
to protect the land approach.
At 10 oclock a. m. I came with the greater part of my command, Com-
pany G, First Artillery, to Fort Pickens to mount guns and make nec-
essary preparations for defense, leaving Lieutenant Gilman at Barran-
cas Barracks with the remainder to make the necessary arrangements
for removal. At ip. m. Lieutenant Gilman, seeing no signs of the prom-
ised assistance, called to see the commodore, and was informed by him
that the only assistance he could afford would be to furnish some pro-
visions and take the command over, which fact Lieutenant Gilman re-
ported to me at Fort Pickens. I immediately stopped all work, sent
the men back, and with Lieutenant Gilman went to see the commodore.
I stated that I had been deceived by him; that he had promised me
men and the co-operation of the two vessels of war, besides the mere
fact of giving us provisions and taking us over; that with my command,
only 46 strong, I should never dream of defending so large a work, cal-
culated for upwards of 1,200 men; that I had been at work on that
promise, and had thus lost a days time in the preparation of Fort Bar-
rancas for defense; that he had distinctly promised me what I assever-
ated. The commodore then sent for Commander Farrand, Lieutenant
Renshaw, and Lieutenant-Commander Berryman, and gave instructions
for carrying out the original design.
Captain Berryman, of the steamer Wyandotte, promised to be ready
to leave his wharf at 5 p. in., at which time all should be in readiness at
the Barrancas wharf for removal. I immediately returned to Barran-
cas Barracks to make preparations. As time was very limited all means
were used to place the public property on the wharf for removal.
Night came, and yet no signs of assistance. The company labored un-
til 12 in., when a heavy fog coming in rendered it highly improbable
that the steamer would come that night. At 8 a. m. on the 10th a fiat-
boat was sent to the wliarf, which was loaded, as well as all the small
boats which could be had. We were landed at Fort Pickens at about
10 a. m. On the way over, Captain Berryman turned over to me thirty
ordinary seamen from the yard, without arms or equipments of any kind.
We labored all day until -night carrying up the stores to Pie fort, and
arranging for its defense. I directed that all the powder in Fort Bar-
rancas should be taken out and rolled to the beach, for transportation
if possible; if not, for destruction. Nearly all the powder and all the
fixed ammunition for the field battery was brought overthat day. All
the guns bearing on the bay were spiked by my orders, itt position, as
I had neither means nor time to dismount them. The provisions required
were, by agreement with the commodore, to be drawn from the Supply
as they were wanted, instead of sending them from the yard; yet, almost
the instant we landed the master of the yard came with some small
stores in a barge, bringing with him an order from Commodore Arm-
strong to land the stores immediately and proceed to anchor off th
Page 336
53(~ OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA. (CHAP. 1V.
center wharf of the yard. As I was not ready to receive the stores, th6
Supply remained at her anchor that night.
On the morning of the 11th I was informed by Captain Walke that
he had received another order from Commodore Armstrong to deliver
the stores and return to the navy-yard. Captain Berryman also told
me that he expected to sail that evening or the next morning for the
south side of Cuba. I immediately caused the following note to be ad-
dressed to the commodore by my acting adjutant, Lieutenant Gilman:
FORT PICKENS, FLA., January 11, 1561.
Commodore JAMES ARMSTRONG, U. S. Navy:
SIR: I understand that it is your intention to withdraw from this fort the proton-
tion of the U. S. steamer Wyandotte and the storeship Supply, contrary to the agree-
ment between you and myself day before yesterday. I again have the honor to stat& ,
as I did to you in presence of several officers at our last interview, that without the
aid of those vessels it will be utterly impossible, in my opinion, for me to protect this
harbor, and I shall therefore, in case this assistance is withdrawn, instantly relin-
quish all hope of defending the place, and report the state of affairs immediately by
a messenger to Washington. I most respectfully request an immediate answer as to
whether the assistance above referred to is to be withdrawn or not.
I am sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
(By order of A. J. Slemuier, First Artillery, U. S. Army, Commanding Fort Pickens:)
J. H. GILMAN,
Second Lieutenant, First Artillery, Acting Adjutant of the Post.
To which the commodore replied as follows:
COMMANDANTS OFFICE, U. 5. NAVY-YARD, PENSACOLA,
Warringion, January 11, 1861~
Lient. A. J. SLEMMER, U. S. Army, Commanding at Fort Pickens, Pla.:
SIR: In reply to your communication of this date, I have to state that the U. S.
storeship Supply was sent to Fort Pickens by my order merely to convey the pre-
visions you required and to return to this navy-yard. The Supply is not a vessel
ef war, and having been sent to this station on the special 8ervice of conveying store~
and coal to Vera Cruz for the vessels of the home squadron stationed ~~here, it ismy
duty to dispatch her to that port at the earliest moment practicable, in conformity
with the orders I have received from the Navy Department, from which orders I ca~i-
not deviate further.
The steamer Wyandotte may be retained, for the purpose of co-operating with you,
until further orders.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES ARMSTRONG,
Commandant~
The Wyandotte and Supply remained at anchor under the fort that
night. Captain Berryman sent me during the evening thirty muskets
and bayonets to arm the ordinary seamen, which he had procured after
some difficulty from tlie navy-yard. He also had for me some musket
cartridges which were promised me from the yard, as my supply was
limited.
On the morning of the 12th, Captain Walke, of the Supply, showed
me a communication to him from the commodore, saying that the yard
was besieged, and that when attacked the Supply must immediately
proceed to Vera Crnz. I received no information from the yard what-
ever of the fact. I immediately addressed a note to the commodore, to
this purport:
Commodore JAMES ARMSTRONG,
Commandant U. 5. Navy-Yard, Warrington, Fla.:
SIR: I am informed that the navy-yard is besieged. In case you determine to
capitulate, please send me the marines to strengthen my command.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. J. SLEMMER,
.First Lieutenant, First Artillery, Commanding Fort Piekens
Page 337
IV.] REPORTS. 337
To which I received no reply. Several hours after this the United
States flag was lowered from the navy-yard. The Supply was towed
outside by the Wyandotte, and both vessels remained anchored at a dis-
tance of about five miles. That night Captain Berryman told me that
his orders of the previous evening were to co-operate with me, but es-
pecially that he must not fire a gun unless his vessel was attacked. He
could offer me no assistance in case I were assaulted. Left thus entirely
to depend on ourselves for defenseeighty-one men, including officers
active preparations were made for flank defense, the guns being loaded
with grape and canister, and the embrasifres closed as well as possible.
On my arrival I found that there was not a single embrasure shutter
in the fort. I caused some to be constructed, and others to be taken
from Fort McRee to supply the deficiency. Just after retreat four gen-
tlemen (three in military clothing) presented themselves at the gate,
and demanded admittance as citizens of Florida and Alabama. They
were told that by order no person was permitted to enter the fort. They
then asked to see the commanding officer. I immediately went to the
gate, accompanied by Lieutenant Oilman. Mr. Abert, engineer of the
yard, presented Captain Randolph, Major Marks, and Lieutenant Rut-
ledge. After a pause, Captain Randolph said, We have been sent to
demand a peaceable surrender of this fort by the governors of Florida
and Alabama. To which I replied that I was here nuder the orders of
the President of the United States, and by direction of the General-in-
Chief of the Army; that I recognized no right of any governor to demand
a surrender of United States property; that my orders were distinct and
explicit. They immediately withdrew.
At 12 oclock at night the men were paraded and told off to the dif-
ferent batteries in anticipation of an attack, slow-rn atch lighted, with lan-
yards and port fires in hand ready to fire. No signs of an attack; night
very daFk and rainy. We still labored on the 13th strengthening our
position, and at night threw out sentinels beyond the glacis. Men stood
at the gnus as on the night previous. Night very dark and rainy. On
the night of the 13th a body of some ten men were discovered evidently
reconnoitering. A shot was fired by them, which was returned by the
sergeant. They then retreated. Nothing more could be seen of the
party that night. On the 14th nothing of interest transpired. Men by
this time almost worn out with labor, standing guard, and at the batter-
ies day and night, for we anticipated an attack at any moment.
On the 15th Colonel Chase, commanding the forces of Florida, accom-
panied by Commander Farrand, late of the U. S. Navy, asked for a
consultation, at which Coloiiel Chase read me the following letter:
HEADQUARTERS PENSACOLA DISTRICT,
January 15, 1861.
Lieut. A. J. SLEMMER,
U. S. Army, Commanding Port Pickens, Harbor of Pensacola:
Sum: I have full powers from the governor of Florida to take possession of the forts
and navy-yard, & c., & c., in this harbor. I desire to perform this duty without the
effusion of blood. You can contribute toward this desirable result, and, in myjudgrnent,
without sacrifice of the honor of yourself or your gallant officers and men. Now, as
commissioner on the part of the governor of the State of Florida, I request the sur-
render of Fort Pickens and the public property it contains into my hands, to be held
subject to any agreement that may be entered into between the commissioners of the
State of Florida and the Federal Government at Washington. I would not counsel
you to do aught that was dishonorable; on the contrary, to do that which will secure
for you the commendation of all Christian gentlemen; and if you refuse u~nd hold out,
for whom do you consent that blood shall flowthe blood of brethren? Certainly not
for the deadly enemies to the assaulters, for they are not such, but brethren of the same
race. If the Union now broken should be reconstructed Fort Pickens and all the
22 R
Page 338
338 OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA. [Cn~r. TV.
public property passes peacefully under Federal authority. If a Southern Confederacy
separates itself from the Union would it not be worse than folly to attempt the main-
tenance of Fort Pickens or any other fortified place within its limits I
Listea to me, thea, I beg of you, and act with me in preventing the shedding the
blood of your brethren. Surrender the fort. You aud your command may reoccupy
the barracks and quarters at Barrancas on your simple parole to remain there quietly
until ordered away, or to resume the command of the harbor should an adjustment of
present difficulties in the Union be arrived at.
All the baggage and private property of any kind belonging to yourself, officers,
men, and their families shall be preserved to you. Cousider this well, and take care
that you will so act as to have no fearful recollections of a tragedy that you might
have averted, but rather to make the present moment one of the most glorious, because
christianlike, of your life.
I beg of you to receive this communication in the same spirit in which it is offered.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. H. CHASE.
I asked, How many men have you ~ The colonel answered, To-
night I shall have between eight and nine hundred. I then said that
I would consider his letter, and would give my answer the next morn-
ing. I also desired to consult with the captains of the Supply and
Wyandotte, which vessels were lying off the navy-yard under a white
flag. The colonel said he would make arrangements for their coming
to the fort, and would see them as he passed. I made this request for
two reasonsfirst, because thereby I would gaiu more time for resting
my men (who were completely exhausted), and, second, because I deemed
it but courtesy on my part to consult them with reference to anything
which would affect our common flag, and because one of them was in
name co-operating with me. They did not come, however. I after-
wards learned that the permission came in such a form that they could
- not accept it.
The next morning I saw with surprise both vessels nnder way going
out of the harbor. I immediately sent a boat with Lieutenant Gilman
to learn the cause of the movement. Captain Walke desired Lieutenant
Gilman to go on board the Wyandottethat he would join him there.
On Lieutenant Gilmans representations Captain Walke ordered the
Wyandotte to stay and render us assistance, and take us off if necessary
on being overcome by a superior force. The following letter was then
sent to Colonel Chase at the navy-yard:
FORT PICKENS, FLA.,
Pensacola Harbor, January 16, 1561.
Col. W. H. CHAsE, ~Jomrnissioner for the State of Florida:
Sm: Under the orders we now have from the War Department, we have decided,
after consultation with the Government officers in the harbor, that it is our duty to
hold our position until such a force is brought against us as to render it impossible to
defend it, or until the political condition of the country is such as to induce us to sur-
render the public property in our keeping to such authorities as may be delegated
legally to receive it.
We deprecate as much as you or any individual can the present condition of affairs,
or the shedding of the blood of our brethren. In regard to this matter, however, we
must consider you the aggressors, and if blood is shed that you are responsible there-
for.
By order of A. J. Slemmer, first lieutenant, First Artillery, commanding:
J. H. GILMAN,
Second Lieutenant, First Artillery, Act. Post Adjt.
Captain Berryman took this letter to the yard, and then ran out of the
harbor.
On the 17th I mounted one 12-pounder gun and one 8-inch sea-coast
howitzer on the northwest bastion. I had previously mounted three
32-pounders in the southeast bastion, and rendered effective the 24
Page 339
Cnir. 1W.] REPORTS. 339
pounder flank-defense howitzers, besides placing my field battery on the
ramparts for effective service.
Oii the 18th the steamer Wyandotte came again in sight. Received
another letter from Colonel Chase, of which the following is a copy:
HEADQUARTRRS PENSACOLA DISTRICT,
January 18, 1861.
Lient. A. J. SLEMMER,
U. S. Army, Commanding Fort Pickens, Pensacola Harbor, Ma.;
Sin: With additional re-enforcements to my forces, arrived and expected, I would
again request the surrender of Fort Pickens, referring you to my first letter on the
subject, and offering the same terms as contained therein.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
W. H. CHASE,
Colonel, Commanding Forces of Florida.
Which was answered as follows:
FORT PICKENS, PENSACOLA HARBOR,
January 18, 1861.
Col. W. H. CHASE, Commanding Forces of Florida, i-c.:
Sin: Before I can answer your communication of this date, it is necessary that I
communicate with Captain Berryman, of the U. S. steamer Wyandotte, co-operating
~vith me. The result of such conference I will make known to you to-morrow morning.
By order of Lieut. A. J. Slemmer,First Artillery, commanding Fort Pickens:
J. H. GILMAN,
Second Lieutenant, First Artillery, Act. Adjt. of Post.
A gun was fired to attract attention, and signal made to send a boat
ashore. The steamer came to anchor off the southeast bastion of the
fort. On the morning of the 19th the following reply was sent:
FORT PICKENS, FLA., January 19, 1861.
Col. W. H. CHASE, Commanding the Forces of Florida, 4-c.:
SIR: In reply to your communication of yesterday I have the honor to state that
as yet I know of no reason why my answer to your communication of the 16th should
be changed, and I therefore very respectfully refer you to that reply for the answer to
this.
By order of First Lieut. A. J. Slemmer, First Artillery, commanding Fort Pickens:
J. H. GILMAN
Second Lieutenant First Artillery, A. Post
Adjt.
On the 20th a party of sailors from the steamer Wyandotte came to
assist us to mount a 10-inch columbiad. They labored that day and part
of the next with imperfect materials, but at last succeeded in placing
it in the trunnion beds. On the 22d and 23d nothing of importance
transpired. We have had almost continued rain since the occupation
of the fort.
On the 24th, thinking it time that better feelings should exist toward
us, I sent a boat under a white flag to the navy-yard, in order to obtain,
if possible, the mail matter which had accumulated now since the 9th
instant. It was refused by the authorities at the post-office. I then
addressed the following note to Colonel Chase:
FORT PICKENS, FLA., January 24, 1S~.
Col. WM. H. CHASE, Commanding the Forces of Florida:
Sin: I have the honor to request that you will permit Captain Berryman to procure,
or have procured for him, the mail matter, letters, papers, & c., which may have ac-
cumulated for me and my command at the Warrington post-office. My mail matter
has been refused me from the office, and I therefore make this request of you as com-
mander-in-chief of the forces, and from a knowledge of your personal character.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. J. SLEMMER,
First Lieutenant, First Artillery, Commanding
Page 340
340 OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA. [CHAP. IV.
Colonel Chase not being present at the yard, Captain Randolph, com-
mandant, ordered my mail matter to be taken to his office. On the 26th
I received the following commnnications:
HEADQUARTERS NAVY YARD, January 26, 1861.
Lient. A. J. SLEMMER, U. S. Army, Commanding Fort Picken8:
Sin: I have this moment received your communication of the 24th instant. I have
been absent at Montgomery, which will acconnt for the delay. I will immediately
inquire at the post-office about your mail matter, and attend to your request. I
would also inform you that you may be supplied with fresh provisions daily if you
desire. I will commnnicate with you again.
In haste, respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. CHASE,
Colonel, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS NAVY YARD, January 26, 1861.
JIAeut. A. J. SLEMMER, U. S. Army, Commanding Fort Pickens:
Sin: I have given strict orders this morning that no citizen or soldier should be
permitted to pass from this side towards Fort Pickens, or to land on Santa Rosa Island,
and I now inform you of the fact, and also that I shall use every effort to have my
orders executed. I have just been informed that some four or five men started ou a
tlsl~ing excursion on the island, and as they must have been ignorant of my orders just
i~sued, I would request that if they have landed on the island they may be sent hack.
Any collision growing out of persons going over to the island or near Fort Pickens
would be most unfortunate in the present state of affairs, and I would request you to
join me in preventing it; and to this effect I would also request that persons in boats
may be warned off, and if any should land, they should be ordered to re-embark.
This should be done in a way to prevent angry feelings between the parties.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WM. H. CHASE,
IJolonel, Commanding Forces.
To which I replied as follows:
FORT PIcKENs, FLA., January 26, 1861.
Col. W. H. CHASE, Commanding Force8:
Sin: Your communication in answer to mine of the 24th instant is before me. I have
directed Lieutenant Gilman to proceed to the navy-yard and consult with you with
reference to supplies of fresh provisions and the mail facilities of my command.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedieat servant,
A. J. SLEMMER,
Fir8t Lieutenant, First Artillery, Commanding.
FonT PICKENS, FLA., January 26, 1861.
Col. W. H. CHASE, Commanding Forces of Florida:
SIR: It gives me much pleasure to learn of your order with reference to the passage
of boats and men to Fort Pickens and Santa Rosa Island from the yard and vicinity.
I have given strict orders to allow no boats to land, and in alt cases of boats approach-
ing the island I am notified of the fact.
This morning I was informed by my sentinels that a boat with four men was ap-
proaching the island above the fort and from the navy yard. I immediately sent and
had theni apprehended, saw the men myself, and (Erected that they be re-embarked
for the navy-yard, which was done, I believe, without any ill feelings being engen-
dered. I will, rest assured, do all in my power to prevent any collision growing out
of bonts landing on the island, and sincerely hope that your orders and vigilance may
prevent any from coming over without your permission and flag.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. J. SLEMMER,
First Lieutenant, First Artillery, Commanding Fort Pickens.
Later in the day the mail for myself and command was bronght over
from the yard with the following note:
HEADQUARTERS PENSACOLA DIsTRIcT,
January 26, 1861.
Lient. A. J. SLEMMER, Commanding Fort Pickens:
Sin: I send over your mail. The mail will be delivered to you in future without
delay.
Respectfully, & c., W. H. CHASE,
Colonel, Commanding Forces, c5~c.
I cannot close this report withont saying a few words with reference
to my command. From the first to this day they have nobly vindicate
Page 341
CHAP. iV.I REPORTS. 341
the honor of the American Army. Through all the toil and excessive
labor by day and standing by the guns at night, for ten days wet to
the skin, without adequate sleep or rest, not one word of complaint has
been uttered, but the most cheerful obedience readily given to all com-
mands. Had we been attacked during those days dreadful would have
been the havoc, and we were menaced every day and night, from the
12th to the 26th. by the increasing number opposite us, numbering at
one time over 2,000 men. All that prevented, I am confident (for such
was the pitch to which their mad folly had carried them), was Colonel
Chases knowledge of the strength and means of resistance within the
fort, and our steady and firm adherence to the course determined on
from the beginning, not to allow ourselves one moment to think of sur-
rendering unless absolutely overpowered by numbers.
I would recommend especially to the favorable notice of the General-
in-Chief, First Sergeant Alexander Jamieson, Sergeant Boyd, Corporals
Caidwell and ODonnell, of Conipany C-, First Artillery, for especial
coolness and activity iu their several stations.
Of Lieutenant Gilman I have only to say that during the whole affair
we have stood side by side, and if any credit is due for the course pur-
sued he is entitled equally with myself.
I have descended iuto particulars in many places, but I did so to show
the difficulties thrown in our way in the execution of our orders, and
by persons, too, who had it in their power to render us the greatest
assistance.
Troops occupy Fort Barrancas, Barrancas Barracks, and Fort McRee.
No guns are mounted at Fort McRee to my knowledge. On the 11th,
Lieutenant Erben, of the storeship Supply, destroyed all the powder
and the materials he could not bring over to Fort Pickens which would
be necessary for the revolutionists to mount the guns, thus doing good
service to the United States.
The present armament here, mouimted and for service, is as follows:
Fourteen 32-pounders, seven 12-pounders, one 8-inch sea-coast howitzer,
one 10-inch columbiad, six field pieces, twenty-five 24-pounder how.
itzersfiank defense. Total, 54.
I have provisions for five months for my present command; also a
sufficient quantity of water.
Nothing of interest has transpired from the 26th ultimo up to this
date except the reception of orders by telegraph, and since by special
messenger, with reference to the landing of troops, & c.
I would most respectfully request that a surgeon be detailed for the
command.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
A. J. SLEMMER,
First Lieutenant, First Artillery, Commanding Post.
Col. L. THOMAS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Headquarters Army.
I have eighty-two men, all toldforty-eight, Company C-, First Artil-
lery, and thirty-one ordinary seamen (of these, seventy-seven are for
duty); two ordnance sergeants, and one hospital stewardnot enough
for the ordinary garrison duty in the present emergency.* I have but
* The original of this paper is indorsed as follows:
This paper was given me by Lieutenant Slemmer without names or date. It relates
to Fort Piekens, and is respectfully submitted.
H. S. PUTNAM,
Lieut. lop. Engineers.
Col. L. THOMAS, Assistant Adjutant-Genera
Page 342
342 OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA. [CHAP. IV.
two reliefs for duty. They mount guard every other day. All the
casemate flank-defense guns are in good order and serviceable. In bar-
bette I have on the land approach nearly all the guns mounted and
available. I have now more guns shotted than with my command in
case of an attack I could use. There are no preparations now which
look to an attack on the fort that I am aware of. Scaling ladders were
prepared some time since iu the navy-yard, and are now ready for any
emergency. Sand batteries were in progress of erection immediately
opposite, but I think more to keep the volunteers employed than for
effective service. The distance is too great for breaching batteries
unless heavy and rifled cannon were used, of which they have none
now available. Shells could, howex~er, be thrown into the fort from
these batteries. The fort can be attacked on all sides by storming
parties landing from the other side in boats under cover of the night,
and with a small force it would be almost impossible to prevent its be-
ing taken.
Under present orders the vessels of the Navy ordered here could, in
case of an assault, render me little or no assistance, a